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Tulsa schools controversy highlights political tensions and racial inequities in Oklahoma education

FILE - Oklahoma Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters speaks during a special state Board of Education meeting, April 12, 2023, in Oklahoma City. Oklahoma's top public education official has a new target in his culture war fight: Tulsa Public Schools. While every other school district in the state had its accreditation approved last month, Walters singled out the state's largest district for further scrutiny. The board made up entirely of appointees of Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt will vote on the district's accreditation on Thursday, Aug. 24. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki, File)
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Overview

  • Oklahoma's Republican State Superintendent singles out Tulsa district over test scores, spurring Democratic accusations of racial bias.
  • Tulsa superintendent resigns to prevent state takeover of district, which serves predominantly nonwhite students.
  • Democratic lawmakers accuse GOP Superintendent of politically targeting Tulsa district rather than addressing statewide issues.
  • Superintendent defends focus on Tulsa, citing need to improve test scores and address embezzlement scandal.
  • Debate highlights political disagreements over best approach to improving education amid racial disparities in Oklahoma schools.