Looser restrictions could mean fewer new textbooks this fall

<br>(Oklahoma City-AP) -- State education officials say there could be fewer new textbooks in classrooms this fall. <br><br>The money set aside for districts to buy books could be reduced if enrollment

Friday, August 1st 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- State education officials say there could be fewer new textbooks in classrooms this fall.

The money set aside for districts to buy books could be reduced if enrollment declines or state tax collections drop. The Legislature is also allowing districts to use the money in areas other than textbooks in some cases.

State schools Superintendent Sandy Garrett says this year's list of books includes foreign language. She says some schools don't use foreign language books as much as an English book and those districts can use the money for ``instructional services.'' The services include teacher salaries or supplemental materials.

The bill is intended to give districts more flexibility in coping with reductions in state funding.