Oklahoma Teacher Survey Shows Strong Concerns About Health Of Themselves, Students

The Oklahoma Education Association said teachers are expressing concerns about their health and many said they feel pressure in the classroom this year.

The OEA surveyed more than 3,100 teachers and administrators from hundreds of communities.

The president of the Oklahoma Education Association said a majority of those who responded, are worried about their own health and the health of their families and students.

The OEA says about 70 percent of teachers are having to work with their students on several platforms, like online school, in-person and a mix of both. They said changes can happen quickly and add to their stress.

The OEA said of the 3,100 responses, about three out of every four don't think state leaders are doing enough to provide what they need to be safe at work.

12 percent of teachers and administrators who responded to the survey said they've gotten COVID-19 and 63 percent believe schools are not safe for in-person classes.

"You know, our educators are doing everything they can, and they desperately need our support. Oklahoma was already in the midst of a teacher shortage before the pandemic, and our teachers are feeling disrespected and more exhausted than ever before," OEA President Alicia Priest said.

The Oklahoma Education Association also shared some thoughts from a teacher who said she's dealing with major health problems after catching COVID-19.

"I'm thankful that I am among the living, so I can tell my story. Never ever, did I believe or even fathom the thought that I would get COVID to the point that it would cause a blood clot," teacher Sharon Hill-Wooten said.

State leaders are pushing school districts to return to in-person classes in just a few weeks. District leaders said they want to, but it's not safe or realistic if the virus is still spreading out of control in their communities.

You can find the full survey results here.