Amid Distance Learning Difficulties, Some TPS Parents Consider Switching Districts

Some Tulsa Public Schools parents are pulling their kids out of the district because they say distance learning is too hard on their families. 

TPS may switch to a hybrid of in-person and distance learning next month, but some parents said that's not enough. 

Lorianna Parker said she works full time all week, and said she's looking at an emergency transfer to move her son to another district. 

"Right now, things are very hard for us," Parker said.

Lorianna Parker has two kids, one of them in 3rd grade at Tulsa Public Schools. She enrolled her son in daycare to do distance learning since she works full time, but she said he is overwhelmed and not doing well.

"We need our teachers in person. That's the way learning is for our students," she said.

On Monday, TPS superintendent Dr. Deborah Gist gave her recommendation for the second nine weeks of learning to the school board.

Related Story: TPS Superintendent Recommends Careful Phasing To In-Person Learning

The options include hybrid learning if COVID-19 numbers stay the same, hybrid learning shifting to in-person learning four days a week if the numbers get better and maintaining full distance learning if the pandemic gets worse.

"We need to take control of the situation and get our numbers down so we can get our students back in school," said Gist.

However, Parker said even hybrid learning isn't enough and she is now considering leaving the district.

"I'm calling districts, private schools, seeing what's private, or what's open to any type of emergency transfer," Parker said.

Many other parents spoke up at this week's board meeting, concerned about families that have already left.

"I know people that purchased houses in Jenks so their children could go to in-person learning in Jenks," said Bryan Harrington.

Parker said the only thing making her want to stay is the friendships her son has made at TPS, and whether her family stays or goes, that choice won't be easy.

"It hurts every day,” Parker said.

Board members will vote on the next nine weeks of school at their meeting next week.