OEA Survey Weighs Oklahoma Educators Safety Concerns

The Oklahoma Education Association said in a survey most educators expressed concern for health and safety when school starts back up again in the Fall.

Most of the 2,895 participants agree classrooms should not go back to the way things were before COVID-19. However, more than 80% said virtual learning is not the way to go.

The OEA surveyed educators across all areas of the school at the beginning of June.

86% said social distancing is not possible for their jobs. That’s why most of the participants said they would rather go to A-B school days, where half of the students go to class one day and the rest of the class come in the next day.

There were disagreements on who should wear masks inside the school. Most agree the schools should provide them for everyone and visitors should be required to wear them.

“Our members are concerned for the health of their students as well as themselves,” said OEA President Alicia Priest. “They want to be part of the planning on how school starts back in the fall, but sadly a large majority of our members say they haven’t been part of the conversation with their school districts.”

Priest said 63% of the participants haven’t had a say in health and safety planning.

To see the entire survey and it’s answers, click here.