State Superintendent Ryan Walters faces scrutiny from member of Gov. Kevin Stitt's cabinet
The secretary went as far as to say that a lack of information about the funding can put students and schools at risk
The secretary went as far as to say that a lack of information about the funding can put students and schools at risk
The secretary went as far as to say that a lack of information about the funding can put students and schools at risk
Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters is facing scrutiny from a member of Gov. Kevin Stitt's cabinet.
KOCO 5 confirmed that Education Secretary Nellie Sanders sent a letter to Walters last week saying she was concerned about lawmakers struggling to get information from the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Sanders asked for clarification on school security funding, how much money is left and whether schools can carry it over.
The secretary went as far to say that a lack of information about the funding can put students and schools at risk.
Oklahoma State Department of Education officials confirmed that they replied to the letter but have not shared their response.
Below is a copy of Sanders' letter to Walters.
Dear Superintendent Walters,
I hope this message finds you well. It was brought to my attention that legislators tasked with oversight of our education systems have struggled to get information concerning the School Resource Officer (SRO) program funding and related policies. Legislators have requested clarity on four different areas of concern. The lack of response to these inquiries concerns me as it puts students and schools at risk. As students return to school in the next few weeks, it is essential we have all the resources available ready to keep kids safe. I know this is a top priority for you too.
Points of Clarification:
1. Revolving Fund Balance and Unspent Funds:
1. Total Budgeted Expenditures: For FY 24, $46,552,000 was allocated for the SRO program.
2. Revolving Fund Balance: At the end of the fiscal year, there was $128 million in the revolving fund, suggesting $28 million of the $46 million allocated for FY 24 was not spent.
3. Request: Please confirm the accuracy of these figures and provide an explanation for the remaining balance in the revolving fund.
2. Carryover Policy for Unspent Funds:
1. Current Understanding: Recent guidance indicates that there is no carryover allowed for unspent funds, specifically for Project 376.
2. Previous Policies: This conflicts with previous policies that allowed for the deferral of funds for larger projects.
3. Request: Clarify the current carryover policy, particularly regarding Project 376, and provide a rationale for any changes from previous policies.
3. Details of Project 376:
1. Specifics Needed: There is confusion about the specifics of Project 376 and whether the no-carryover policy applies solely to this project or all SRO grants.
2. Request: Provide detailed information about Project 376, including its objectives, funding allocations, and any unique restrictions.
4. Removal of Guidance on SRO Grants:
1. Current Situation: Guidance on SRO grants was recently removed from the Department's webpage and FAQs.
2. Impact: This removal has created uncertainty about the policies and procedures currently in place.
3. Request: Explain the reason for removing the guidance and provide the most current policies and procedures regarding SRO grants.
Given the importance of these questions to the ongoing efforts to enhance school safety and the need to respond promptly to the Senate Appropriations Chair, we request that you provide the clarifications by the end of business today.
Your immediate attention to this matter is greatly appreciated, and we look forward to your detailed response.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Sincerely,
Nellie
In May 2023, the state legislature passed a bill allocating funds for public schools to improve their safety, including the hiring of more officers. Some superintendents told KOCO 5 and lawmakers that the OSDE is taking back funds that weren't spent.
Walters told KOCO 5 that those claims aren't true and that he has asked for the attorney general's opinion on the issue.
The latest news comes amid a bipartisan effort calling for an impeachment investigation into the state superintendent. More than two dozen Oklahoma Republicans have signed a letter requesting a committee to investigate Walters, but House Speaker Charles McCall said he won't consider the request until at least 51 Republicans sign on.
"I don't know that 51 is obtainable, but I think at 26, that's concerning to me if I was in his shoes," state Rep. Mark McBride said.
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