Speaker Hiett & House GOP Leaders Unveil Education Achievement Plan

OKLAHOMA CITY (February 28, 2005)
Seeking to prepare Oklahomastudents for the demands of the 21st century job market, Speaker of the Oklahoma House Todd Hiett and key Republican lawmakers today unveiled details about a comprehensive agenda for reform in the state's schools. "We're united in our support for excellence in education," said Speaker Hiett. "Our schools have reached a critical juncture. We must take comprehensive action this year, a progressive commitment to preparing students for graduation."

The press conference today took place at Western VillageAcademy, a charter elementary school in Oklahoma City. WVA was one ofthe first charter schools in Oklahoma, serving students who live in thesurrounding area. The school had been on the state's low performing list during the 1990's. After INTEGRIS Health became involved, the facility underwent renovations and implemented an innovative curriculum. According to Peggy Brinson, the school's principal, test scores have started to rise, and student reading skills are increasing. "Western Village is a success story, and it represents the kindof results we're trying to achieve for students across the state," saidRep. Odilia Dank (R-Oklahoma City) chair of the House Common EducationCommittee.

Hiett noted that last week, 13 state governors stepped forward calling for more stringent standards for high schools nationwide, concentrating on college standards and graduation rates. House Republican lawmakers including Dank, Speaker Pro Tempore Susan Winchester (R-Chickasha), Rep. Lance Cargill (R-Harrah), Rep. Tad Jones (R-Claremore) and Rep. Sally Kern (R-Oklahoma City) highlighted acomprehensive agenda for reform in Oklahoma schools. The agenda focuses on two significant changes - teacher empowerment and student achievement.

To read Republican Education bills 1235, 1457, 1513 1621, 1786, 2023, click on www.lsb.state.ok.us