Oklahoma teacher panhandles for her classroom's school supplies

Sunday, July 23, 2017
TULSA, Oklahoma -- An elementary school teacher in Oklahoma said in spite of earning a master's degree and teaching since 1996, she just can't afford the supplies she needs for her classroom.

Armed with a sign and a hope, Teresa Danks is now begging for change on the side of the road.
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"Thank you so much sir," she said to one generous driver.

Danks said she didn't get into teaching because it's financially rewarding, but because it's a passion.

But lately, "it's just getting harder and harder," she said.

Making $35,000 a year, Danks said she has to dig into her own pocket for school supplies, spending around $2,000 to $3,000 a year.



"And I'm not alone. I mean, we are all doing it. I am just one voice of many," Danks said.
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Just one voice, but it's a loud one. Danks said she's received lots of encouragement and some money during her unorthodox fundraiser.

"I was getting emotional. People were like, 'Teachers like you - that's the reason I am alive today,'" Danks said.

The teacher said she made $35 in about six or seven minutes. That's double what she makes for an hour in the classroom.
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