The recent audit into Tulsa Public Schools TPS revealed significant financial misconduct spanning nearly a decade, shedding light on a culture of non-compliance and a systemic lack of internal controls.
Conducted by Oklahoma State Auditor Cindy Byrd, the audit uncovered over $824,000 in misappropriated funds, with previous reports indicating nearly half a million dollars in questionable expenses.
The audit was initiated after the resignation of TPS Chief Talent and Equity Officer Devin Fletcher in 2022, amidst allegations of embezzlement.
Byrd’s findings emphasized multiple issues within TPS, including:
- A lack of proper oversight and internal controls, contributing to financial discrepancies.
- A failure to comply with district policies and state laws, notably in vendor contracts and ESSER fund usage.
- A lack of transparency with the TPS board and the public.
The audit also revealed several questionable practices, such as using the district’s foundation to bypass the legally-required bidding process, resulting in overpayments. Notably, TPS overpaid $243,000 in one case due to poor bookkeeping and owed at least $1.2 million to the Oklahoma Teacher Retirement program.
Governor Kevin Stitt, who requested the audit in 2022, expressed his dismay over the findings, emphasizing the need for accountability. He called for immediate action from the Attorney General to bring charges against any wrongdoers involved.
The findings have raised concerns about the effectiveness of financial management in TPS and call for stronger oversight to prevent similar issues in the future.
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