Many people know that in September, 2011, Edmond, OK was voted the #1 suburb in America by CNBC. One of the biggest factors contributing to this is the school system. Edmond Public Schools are ranked higher than 59 percent of all other U.S. public schools. (The Edmond Sun)
Fantastic news, and now we know we’re capable of great schools in Oklahoma! But why is the school system in the capital of our state suffering?
Oklahoma City Public Schools facts
The statistics are absolutely shocking when it comes to the Oklahoma City Public Schools, and honestly quite depressing. Here are six of many reasons why we are reaching out to them.
- In 2009, OKCPS became the largest school district in the state.
- Of the 42,457 enrolled, 38,310 students live at or near poverty. That’s 90%!
- 1,719 students are homeless.
- 1/3 of the students don’t even graduate high school.
- Of the ones that actually go to college, only 28% earn a degree.
- 1 in every 3 teacher spends more than $1000 of their own paycheck on school supplies every year.
As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to start revolutionizing the OKC Public School system.
How Team UP OKC is helping
In 2008, 3,000 misprinted pizza boxes were donated to The Foundation for OKC Public Schools. Within days, all boxes had been picked up by teachers for art projects and more.
The need was apparent, so The Foundation for OKCPS introduced the TEACHERS WAREHOUSE, a program providing free classroom supplies and equipment that teachers can order, once a month, from an online catalog.
Because of Comtech Print & Design & Panera Bread teaming up with some amazing organizations, Team Up OKC launched last year in 2010. Here are a few other sponsors to give you an idea of how many people are supporting the cause.
Sponsors
- Bank of Oklahoma
- Feed the Children
- Hertz
- Oklahoma Gazette
- Oklahoma City Barons
- Jason’s Deli
- And so many more!
These organizations are donating time and/or money in order to make the school supply drive a success. The supply drive will occur November 1-15th, and all of the supplies will benefit the Teacher’s Warehouse of The Foundation for OKC Public Schools.
How you can help
You can donate needed materials at one of the appropriate drop off locations. Even if you think it’s simple and cheap, those supplies will be put to use! Backpacks are one of the most needed items, along with paper, pencils, crayons, etc.
If you’re near Oklahoma Christian, T&S Web Design is a drop off location! Here’s the map.
Donating school supplies may not seem like we are changing the world, but in order to educate the younger generation, we need resources. Education is so important, and I think the smart thing to do is focus on our children in order to provide them with a more positive future!
