The combined committees of the Oklahoma House and Senate responsible for budget discussions are considering a proposed ban on the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) ‘s public relations expenditures.
This legislation aims to ensure funds are used primarily on direct educational services. Supporters believe this will prioritize spending on teaching resources and improve educational outcomes.
However, opponents worry that it could limit the department’s ability to communicate about key educational initiatives. The consequential debate among educators, politicians, and citizens about educational funding and transparency is thought to be contentious.
Last year, a controversial incident led to OSDE paying Precision Outreach $22.5k to produce promotional content. This sparked protests, straining relations between teachers’ labor groups and OSDE. As a result, many questioned OSDE’s fund allocation, prompting the proposal under discussion.
The proposal would establish stricter guidelines on OSDE fund spending, while critics believe it might hamper OSDE’s ability to disseminate necessary information efficiently.
Last year, criticism of the OSDE’s handling of a $50k contract with Precision Outreach raised further questions, leading to calls for a detailed review of the contract agreement, justifiability of cost, and intention behind it.
In 2024, OSDE’s collaboration with DC-based Vought Strategies, which received $30k for four months, received scrutiny.
Oklahoma debates education department’s PR funding
Critics question the value and necessity of such an expensive external PR agency. However, Vought Strategies justifies its services by stating that its long-term impact isn’t immediately observable.
Representative Forrest Bennett criticized State Superintendent Walter’s actions, citing his leadership style as causing division among staff and weakening the state’s education system. Walter dismissed these criticisms as politically motivated.
Currently, legislation changes seek to prevent use of public funds for personal image boosting. Despite concerns, an OSDE allocation bill amounting to nearly $3.9 billion was approved by the Senate. Critics believe such spending should focus on education and healthcare, whereas proponents argue this is essential for upholding democratic values.
With such significant allocation, it remains to be seen how effectively OSDE will utilize the funds and whether they contribute positively to political image and transparency, or are misused. The key concern centers on spending in a manner that benefits public interest.
