Statement from Shawn Hime, Executive Director of the Oklahoma State School Boards Association, on the state budget agreement:

“We appreciate the challenge Gov. Mary Fallin and legislative leaders have before them in drafting the budget and are grateful they have agreed to shield public schools from additional cuts. The reality is even with this agreement, schools will continue struggling with a severe teacher shortage, growing class sizes and shrinking educational opportunities for students. The significant cut to Oklahoma’s world-class career technology centers will affect thousands of students.

“While we are thankful to state leaders for prioritizing public education, this year is evidence Oklahoma desperately needs a long-term funding plan to improve teacher pay and ensure schools have the resources to offer rich educational opportunities for every student.

“Education is the greatest investment the state can make. Every community, every business and every Oklahoman must be part of a long-term solution for properly funding education.”