Panhandling teacher draws national spotlight to Oklahoma's education troubles

TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — A local teacher makes international headlines as she is taking a stand on the streets, panhandling for school supplies.

Third-grade teacher Teresa Danks appeared on Good Morning America, but her appearance follows her decision to panhandle for school supplies.

Danks took to the road with a poster board and a goal of accepting cash for her classroom. She says her husband and her father both encouraged and supported her to make a strong statement.

Danks teaches at Grimes Elementary but now has a GoFundMe page and is starting a foundation to help other teachers.

Harvard Avenue Christian Church has been a partner to Danks and Grimes Elementary. Reverend Courtney Richards says teachers should not have to beg.

“She is just one of those heroes in that line of people that we celebrate, and the fact she is continuing to say, ‘This is not right, but this is what I am going to do for the good of my students,’ shows the kind of hero she is for the rest of us,” said Richards.

Tulsa Public Schools says Danks’ fundraiser is a personal goal and not in partnership with the district.