On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, Governor Kevin Stitt released the following statement after State Auditor Cindy Byrd published the findings of the audit of Tulsa Public Schools (TPS):

"I requested this audit in 2022, and today Auditor Byrd finally confirmed what myself and many other Oklahomans believed to be true— where there’s smoke, there’s fire. And it’s deeply troubling to see Tulsa Public Schools having engaged in such gross financial misconduct," said Governor Stitt. "The release of the audit is only the first step in holding wrongdoers accountable. The Attorney General needs to take immediate action and bring charges wherever possible. This can never be allowed to happen in Oklahoma again."

Governor Stitt originally called for the audit in response to concerns from parents, school board members, and teachers regarding TPS’s financial practices. In his 2022 statement, the Governor cited concerns over potential HB 1775 violations, transparency in spending, and the need for accountability to taxpayers.

The findings revealed the misuse of nonprofit partnerships, unauthorized teacher training programs, fraud, embezzlement, and extensive financial mismanagement, including:

-- At least $1 million in expenses related to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

-- More than $500,000 in bonuses paid to TPS administrators without proper authorization.

-- Nearly $5 million in reimbursements made with federal COVID relief dollars lacking proper documentation.

-- More than $5 million on goods and services in likely violation of HB 1775.

-- And more.

The special audit report can be found here.