Statement from Sen. Quinn regarding teacher walkout

“I was pleased to meet with at least five groups with 10 to 20 in each group today.  I was encouraged by the positive approach about additional school funding.  I explained that teacher pay had been priority number one in our recent sessions, with the average teacher raise given last week equaling $6,100, or a 15% increase. 

While the vast majority of conversations today revolved around additional funding for education, a specific teacher began to talk about her salary in comparison to her financial obligations in receiving her doctorate degree.  The individual indicated she has in excess of $200,000 in student loan debt.  My statement was directed at her specific situation.  My specific comment was she may need to think about changing jobs to meet those obligations.  Under no circumstances did I indicate teachers in general should leave the state, as again, I was directly addressing the specific situation of this individual.

Anyone who knows me knows I am very upfront and honest with what I say and what I believe.  Under no circumstances, did I make the blanket statement that Oklahoma teachers just need to leave teaching and find another job.”