Oklahoma Superintendent Awards Staff Nearly $600K in Bonuses

Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters awarded nearly $600,000 in bonuses to Department of Education staff in 2024, with most employees receiving an average of $1,700, equating to 2.5% of their salaries. Notably, Chief Policy Advisor Matt Langston received nearly $45,000 in January, raising questions about whether this amount was a bonus or a pay adjustment, as it is categorized as regular pay. Langston, who is among the highest-paid employees with an estimated salary of $130,000, has faced scrutiny regarding his residency status in Texas and potential ties to political consulting. A group of lawmakers has requested an investigation into Langston, suspecting he may be a 'ghost employee', defined as someone listed on payroll without fulfilling job duties. Attorney General Gentner Drummond declined to pursue the investigation. The situation has sparked concerns over the management of public funds and accountability within the education department.