Supt. Ryan Walters announces statewide tutoring investment

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - Superintendent Ryan Walters announced on Thursday a $3,000,000 tutoring investment for programs across Oklahoma.

Officials say the investment is focused on improving student learning and literacy in both urban and rural schools. Students will also be provided with research-based, small-group tutoring consistent with the Science of Reading and the Oklahoma Academic Standards.

“The national decline is unlike anything we have seen. Literacy is the foundation for everything our students learn, the bottom line is: if you can’t read you can’t be successful,” said Supt. Walters. “By investing in targeted tutoring, we are giving Oklahoma students the tools they need to succeed in school, in their careers, and in life. This is about results, accountability, and making sure every child has the opportunity to thrive.”

According to Walters, the rural initiative is called the "Rural Literacy Acceleration Initiative". One hundred districts will get a $10,000 grant to improve their literacy programs.

In addition to the rural initiative, Tulsa Public Schools and Oklahoma City Public Schools will receive $1,000,000 each to launch literacy programs for its students.

“We’re grateful for this investment and committed to using these resources to accelerate learning, with a clear focus on student outcomes and academic momentum. This grant
comes at a critical time and will support learners across Tulsa Public Schools,” said TPS Superintendent Dr. Ebony Johnson.

“We are grateful for the State Department’s investment,” said OKCPS Superintendent Dr. Jamie Polk. “By providing structured, data-driven support, Project LIFT helps ensure every child builds the skills and confidence needed to thrive in school and beyond.”