April 2018- A picture is worth a thousand words, just like the thousand of educators in Oklahoma who took to the streets to protest and march for their educational rights but most importantly fighting for their students rights.

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This collage of images display the amount of tenacity teachers have while holding their signs as they protest all the way to ​the state's capitol as they demand for a raise, better school funding and updated teaching material. 

These images were handpicked to educate to everyone of what is presently becoming prominent in schools across the nation. Learning resources that are currently being used to educate students today are the same ones that were used decades ago. One mother in Oklahoma expressed her concern that her daughter's textbook was once used by Blake Shelton. 

 

After nine days of teachers protesting, the Union decided to end the walkout because they realized that the Senate Republicans in the Legislature won't budge an inch on any more revenue for public education. But this does not mean that the teachers are done. Although they may have put their signs to rest these same teachers are now running for office to ensure a change is going to be made. 

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The Oklahoma Education Association said, with average raises of $6,100 for teachers and $1,250 for support staff that it is a start but it is not good enough. Initially, they wanted the average of raises to be $10,000. Also, the legislation also raised other education funding money for textbooks and the state-aid formula, and for flex health care benefits over the next fiscal year by more than $70 million. 

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Along with Oklahoma, Colorado and Arizona have also began a walk out of their schools to exemplify that they have reached rock bottom with the education system in America. They each walk for miles as they shout at the top of their lungs "Help me, Help Them." 

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The hashtag #RedforEd was created by the teachers is also becoming widespread as they advocate for better education funds for their schools and in their classrooms. 

One great thing comes out of protesting and marching is that when people gather as a unity  for a great cause in hopes of making a difference they do not give up as they continue to fight for what they believe in. This exemplifies that change can be made, voices will be heard all it takes is having perseverance and stamina to stand your ground! 

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