The Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency (LOFT) will present its findings on the State Department of Education’s use of federal funding in a meeting on Tuesday.
OSDE is facing scrutiny over its distribution of state and federal funds designated for school security, maternity leave, inhalers, and teacher pay raises.
The inquiry follows concerns raised by lawmakers regarding potential misallocation of resources.
In August, State Superintendent Ryan Walters was questioned about the department’s financial decisions, prompting calls for a LOFT investigation.
Lawmakers are seeking clarity on how the funds were managed, particularly in light of recent budget challenges affecting schools across the state.
Walters has maintained that he acted appropriately and asserts that he sought guidance from Attorney General Gentner Drummond regarding legal frameworks governing school security funding.
The investigation has escalated tensions between Walters and state leaders, with Walters challenging them to initiate impeachment proceedings if they believe he has acted improperly.
The outcome may affect how state and federal funds are allocated to address critical issues in Oklahoma’s educational system.
