Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has announced an investigative audit of the State Department of Education following the resignation of state superintendent Ryan Walters. The decision to conduct the audit comes after credible concerns were raised regarding the financial management and spending practices during Walters’ tenure.
Drummond has pointed out that there is a documented history of financial mismanagement under Walters’ leadership, prompting demands for greater transparency on how taxpayer dollars were handled. The audit will cover the period from January 9, 2023, when Walters assumed office, to September 30, 2025.
In his communication to Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector Cindy Byrd, Drummond referenced specific issues during Walters’ previous role at Every Kid Counts Oklahoma—a program intended to distribute COVID-19 relief funds to assist low-income students in acquiring technology. Although a grand jury investigated the program and found evidence of mismanagement, no criminal charges were ultimately pursued. During this time, both Governor Kevin Stitt and Walters had attributed part of the issues to an external vendor, ClassWallet.
As Walters exits his elected position to take on the role of CEO of the Teacher Freedom Alliance, the focus now shifts to ensuring accountability within the Department of Education. Drummond’s audit is designed to address the lingering questions about financial conduct and safeguard the interests of Oklahoma’s families and students.
This move suggests a commitment to upholding fiscal responsibility and reinforcing trust in the state’s education system, creating a renewed hope for improvement and transparency in future funding allocations. The results of the audit may ultimately lead to necessary reforms that could benefit educational programs across Oklahoma.