School is back in session in Oklahoma. That comes with changes, challenges, and emotions

In just a few days, Oklahoma City students will be returning to their classrooms for the 2023-24 school year, alongside all of the challenges that comes with it.

This year, The Oklahoman has examined all of the changes students, teachers, and parents will be seeing this year, and the issues they're facing: From the end of free school lunches, to the exhaustion of the political divide reaching classrooms, and new laws and regulations deeply impacting LGBTQ families in Oklahoma.

We've also included a guide for parents who are still organizing for the new school year.

The 2023-24 academic year marks a new beginning for Oklahoma schools — on multiple fronts

The end of summer break and the start of another school year always bring a flurry of activity. A new leader is in charge of Oklahoma's public education system, with different rules and ideas from the administration that came before. We examine the changes, and how they impact Oklahoma families. READ MORE.

School year begins with more money and hopes for higher achievement

Oklahoma has historically underinvested in education. Legislators have approved major increases in funding, but challenges remain in a state where student scores have fallen below those in most other states. READ MORE.

Parents' practical guide: What you should know for the start of school

As Oklahomans gear up for school, here's a practical guide for parents to check off some items on to-do lists, from school supplies to start dates.  READ MORE

School meals were free for 2 years, but now lunch debt is back on the table

For two years during the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government allowed every student in the United States to eat for free at school. Since the program ended, it's been a struggle for families and administrators alike. READ MORE.

How Oklahoma's new private school tax credit will work remains unclear

Beginning next year, families with children in a private school will receive a refundable tax credit to use for tuition. But there are still questions the Oklahoma Tax Commission has yet to answer. READ MORE

Grading Oklahoma: A visual look at education in our state

Oklahoma ranks 48th for overall well-being and 49th in education, according to Kids Count's annual report. Take a visual tour of the numbers in our state, from well-being to teacher salaries, to student performance. READ MORE

What are students and teachers hopeful for in the new year?

We asked students and teachers alike about their hopes and worries heading into the school year in Oklahoma. Here's what they said. READ MORE

Why some Oklahoma parents who homeschool their children are not in favor of state support

The number of students being taught at home has risen significantly nationwide since the COVID-19 pandemic. And although the state of Oklahoma has taken steps to support them, many homeschool families are wary. READ MORE

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma schools are back in session. These are the issues they face