Senate approves bill for schools to conduct teacher exit interviews

OKLAHOMA CITY – A measure authored by Senate Education Committee Chair Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, was approved Tuesday to try to find answers to the ongoing teacher shortage. Senate Bill 1630 would direct school districts to conduct exit interviews when a teacher leaves their position, just as many private sector companies do with their employees.

“We’ve passed two historic pay increases, along with several reforms on licensing, professional development, school safety and other critical areas. This change would let teachers share why they want to move to another district, teach in a different state, or leave this honorable profession altogether,” Pugh said. “Exit interviews are something successful organizations do with employees to bring about positive changes, and we want the same for our teachers, both at the local and state level. If we get consistent feedback in a particular area, then we can help improve our schools and give teachers the support they need.”

The interview would include a standardized form created by the State Department of Education (SDE). SDE would use the data collected from the interviews to inform decisions regarding professional development and the Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (OEQA) would use the information for teacher education programs.

SB 1630 now moves to the House where Rep. Rhonda Baker, R-Yukon, is carrying the legislation.

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For more information, contact:  Sen. Pugh: (405) 521-5622 or Adam.Pugh@oksenate.gov