Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus discusses diversity, inclusion in public schools

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — On Thursday, the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus discussed diversity and inclusion in Oklahoma's public schools.

The Caucus spoke about how legislation approved in the state affects diversity and inclusion in Oklahoma and its schools. They also discussed school choice in Oklahoma, saying it would unfairly hurt public schools.

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The Chair of the Caucus, Rep. Jason Lowe, accused State Superintendent Ryan Walters of using racial undertones in his proposals.

"This bill provides little to no accountability. There is very little protection from fraud and abuse," Lowe said. "We don't want another Epic. We don't want another ClassWallet. There is no accountability system in place for this voucher plan, and make no mistake, this is a voucher plan."

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Lowe says the money should instead be used to increase teacher pay in Oklahoma to be more in line with other states.

Lowe also spoke about bills targeting books in public schools, saying parents should be the gatekeepers in their children's education, not the government.

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