Thread by @paytonnmay

@RyanWaltersSupt is addressing House members about the FY2024 budget, laying out his priorities for this year in education. #okleg

A lot of confusion on the floor. Walters is presenting Hofmeister’s budget that was previously approved, but wants to change the budget and present it next week.

There’s questions on why he’s presenting a budget with numbers he wants to change & if he can change them.

So they’re supposed to be doing a performance review, but Walters is going more into his education agenda. There’s definitely some tension in the room.

“l don’t want you to show me what you think.”-Rep. McBride

UPDATE: The State Board of Education can amend the previous budget, the Superintendent can’t just do it.

So Walters would need approval from the Board before changing all of Hofmeister’s approved numbers.

“Teaching kids the science of reading” seems to be the buzz phrase today, and Walters says that’s of the upmost importance.

I think this is in reference to test scores in the state, but the conversation has gone in different directions. McBride asked that “we stay on topic.”

Rep. McBride: “I feel like I’m sitting in a campaign speech.”

He is concerned that this Walters presentation and the questioning following it is more about policy and less about appropriations.

This might end early?

Rep. McBride is allowing one more question from Democrats. He says this is less about appropriations and budget.

Dems are asking for an overview of differences in his budget to Hofmeister’s.

Walters wants to pay the “best and brightest teachers” with performance based best practices.

He also wants to invest in reading. He has not specified how.

Meeting adjourned.

Walters says we can expect the updated budget next week.