Dear Spartans,
This afternoon, it was brought to my attention that Superintendent Ryan Walters referenced Bixby Public Schools in a letter to parents, indicating the district reported $43.3M in surplus funds, implying the district is prioritizing "bloated bureaucracies” over the needs of students, specifically as it relates to meals. Because this communication was not sent directly to me, and Superintendent Walters and his team did not respond to my outreach, I am unable to verify how he arrived at that figure or what specific calculation he used.
Upon reviewing fiscal reports submitted by the district on the state reporting website, it appears that Mr. Walters may have included multiple funding sources, some of which are legally restricted to specific purposes, such as bond funds. As he is surely aware, bond funds are governed by law and may only be used for designated projects that are clearly outlined in the bond resolution, approved by the community, and passed with a 60% supermajority vote.
Schools can spend bond funds on a variety of capital expenditures and improvements, according to Oklahoma Statutes. These funds cannot be used for daily operational expenses or salaries. Here's a breakdown of what bond funds can generally be used for:
Facilities: Constructing new buildings, renovating, expanding, remodeling, and repairing existing facilities. This also includes improving or acquiring school sites.
Equipment and Technology: Purchasing furniture, fixtures, equipment, and upgrading technology infrastructure, including computers and software. It also covers the acquisition of textbooks, digital curriculum, instructional materials, and equipment for music and athletics.
Transportation: Purchasing new buses and other transportation vehicles.
Safety and Security: Enhancing safety and security through updates to fire alarms, security cameras, and secure entry systems.
Energy Efficiency: Investing in projects like HVAC system upgrades and energy-efficient lighting to reduce energy consumption.
As mentioned in our communication earlier this week, and many times in the past, we take our fiscal responsibility very seriously. Our district is committed to maintaining open and transparent processes through routine communications, publicly accessible board meetings (which can be found on our website), independent financial audits, and state oversight that exceeds legal requirements.
To reiterate the important perspective shared in our previous communication, even with a crippling 50% cut to an already very efficient administrative portion of the district’s budget (currently 2.65%, with a legal cap at 5%), the district would only be able to absorb approximately 30% of the cost of student meals.
Unfortunately, reports such as those issued this week by Superintendent Walters cause unnecessary confusion, straining the strong relationship between our district and the families we serve. We remain focused on responsible stewardship of the resources entrusted to us and supporting our students as our top priority.
Lydia Wilson
Superintendent