Monday, August 22, 2011

Back to School = Back to Work

It’s time for school again! Over the last couple of weeks it has been great to see all the kids heading towards school as I head towards work. It reminds me of a time not that long ago when I was anticipating that first day as well. This time of year is filled with so many emotions and new things for each student, but it also includes many things for the teachers and administrators of each school.
During my first session in the legislature I gained a new appreciation and admiration for these individuals who pour so many hours into our student’s lives. I have spent many hours talking with these teachers and administrators and have seen their heart. They are amazing people who long to see our children succeed in life and I am extremely grateful for them.
I am committed to making sure our educators have the tools that they need to successfully guide our children. I am a huge advocate of local control in our school systems and believe that our parents and teachers know what is best for our students. I became frustrated during the legislative session with the legislature, other State leaders, and members of my own party, as they tried to impose reform on our rural schools when it wasn’t in our best interest. While I believe that many of these reform issues would work for larger urban school districts, I couldn’t see them improving our rural schools. In talking with our teachers and administrators I found that they feel the same.
Like I have said before, I believe my job as a Representative is to be accessible and accountable to my constituents. I plan on meeting again with each of the schools and their administrators and teachers this fall. My hope is that these meetings will bring ideas and solutions to improving education in our area.
If you, an individual or a teacher, have ideas or would like to meet with me for any reason, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I would love to talk with you! That’s what I’m here for!
Call my office at: 405-557-7349, email me at: josh.cockroft@okhouse.gov, and follow me on Twitter: VoteCockroft27 and Facebook. Follow my blog at: repjoshcockroft.blogspot.com