Amid a significant rise in financial allocations for public schools in Oklahoma, questions arise about the effectiveness of these funds. Since 2018, funding has surged by billions, yet academic outcomes have not improved correspondingly. This paradox was highlighted during legislative debates concerning scholarships for special needs students, where some lawmakers expressed disbelief at the level of investment in public education. Despite record-high per-student funding surpassing private school tuition costs both locally and nationally, academic results such as ACT scores and NAEP rankings indicate stagnation or even decline.
Details on Oklahoma's Educational Funding and Results
In the heart of the Midwest, amidst the rolling plains of Oklahoma, a striking trend has emerged over the past several years. Between the 2017-2018 and 2023-2024 academic years, public-school revenue soared from $6.3 billion to nearly $9.6 billion, representing a remarkable increase of more than $3.3 billion. This translates into an impressive 51% hike in per-student funding, climbing from $9,067 to $13,736 annually. Remarkably, this figure exceeds the average tuition fees charged by private institutions within the state and across the United States.
Despite these financial injections, educational achievements appear to be slipping. For instance, the average ACT composite score for graduating high-school students dropped from 19.3 in 2018 to 17.6 in 2024. Similarly, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), fourth- and eighth-grade students' performance in reading and mathematics now ranks among the lowest nationwide. Researchers note that despite increased spending, reading scores for fourth graders have fallen significantly since 2019.
Certain districts with exceptionally high per-student funding also struggle academically. In places like Billings, Dahlonegah, Geary, Forgans, and Sweetwater, where funding ranges between $22,000 and $34,000 per student, only a small fraction of pupils meet or exceed grade-level standards. These findings challenge the conventional wisdom linking higher expenditures directly to better educational outcomes.
Furthermore, legislative proposals aiming to mandate that at least half of school budgets must go toward classroom instruction faced opposition. Lawmakers like Cyndi Munson voiced concerns about perceived underfunding without acknowledging existing robust allocations. Meanwhile, alternative programs such as the Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarships provide tailored support for children with disabilities but remain controversial within political circles.
Perspective on the Current State of Affairs
From a journalistic standpoint, it becomes evident that merely increasing monetary inputs does not guarantee enhanced educational outputs. The situation in Oklahoma underscores the necessity for strategic planning and efficient resource allocation. Perhaps focusing on optimizing existing funds rather than solely seeking additional ones could yield more favorable results. Moreover, evaluating how other states manage similar challenges might offer valuable insights. As educators, policymakers, and stakeholders grapple with these issues, fostering dialogue around innovative teaching methods and accountability measures seems crucial moving forward.
Residents and businesses in San Diego are being encouraged to check if they are entitled to unclaimed funds totaling $916,418. The city has released a report detailing these monies owed to over 800 entities, ranging from $1 to $28,000. These funds stem from uncashed checks or payments returned due to address changes. Last year, only 53% of the total unclaimed money was successfully returned. Individuals and companies have approximately one year from when the check was issued to claim their money before it gets transferred to the city's general fund.
The process involves searching an online database for names or business listings, followed by filing a claim form either digitally or via mail. Once verified, the city issues payment within three to four weeks. A significant portion of these funds remains unclaimed, urging citizens to act promptly and reclaim what is rightfully theirs.
Understanding Unclaimed Monies: What They Are and Who They Belong To
Unclaimed funds represent refund checks or vendor payments intended for individuals or businesses but never cashed or returned due to incorrect addresses. The city sends these checks based on recorded addresses, and if not claimed within six months, they become classified as unclaimed. This situation affects numerous recipients, with amounts varying widely, from a single dollar to nearly $28,000. Notable examples include Ellis California Jones III owed $1 and EDCO Disposal Corp. owed nearly $28,000.
In detail, these funds arise from various sources such as refunds or contractual obligations that were not fulfilled through timely receipt. The city strives to reunite these funds with their rightful owners, emphasizing financial transparency. However, historically, only about half of the unclaimed money finds its way back to the intended beneficiaries. For instance, last year, despite efforts, around 47% of the total remained unclaimed. This discrepancy highlights the need for greater awareness and action among residents and businesses alike.
How to Identify and Claim Your Share of Unclaimed Funds
To ascertain whether you qualify for any of these funds, use the provided spreadsheet available online. By utilizing the search function (CTRL-F), you can input your name or company details to verify eligibility. It’s essential to act quickly since the deadline for claiming checks issued prior to April 1, 2024, is set for June 16, 2025. Missing this date results in the transfer of these funds to the city's general budget.
Once identified as a recipient, proceed by filling out the designated claim form, which can be completed online or printed and mailed to the Department of Finance. After submission, the city verifies the claims and issues checks within three to four weeks. Assistance is available via email or phone should questions arise during the process. The city underscores its commitment to returning every dollar to its rightful owner, encouraging all potential beneficiaries to engage actively in this straightforward yet crucial endeavor.
In a recent speech delivered at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta's 2025 Financial Markets Conference, Dallas Fed President Lorie K. Logan addressed the critical role of nonbank financial institutions (NBFIs) within Treasury and money markets. The conference took place in Amelia Island, Florida, where Logan joined a panel featuring notable experts from the financial sector. Her remarks highlighted the importance of these markets as foundational elements of the financial system, emphasizing their vulnerabilities and potential areas for improvement. Logan discussed the challenges posed by limited intermediation capacity, excessive leverage, and uneven risk management, while also exploring strategies to enhance market resilience.
The significance of Treasury and money markets cannot be overstated, as they underpin the financing of the U.S. government, provide a benchmark for long-term interest rates, and facilitate the implementation of monetary policy. Despite their robust nature, these markets face potential risks stemming from economic shocks that can overwhelm intermediation supply. Logan pointed out that since the Global Financial Crisis, bank-affiliated dealers' balance sheet capacity has not grown proportionally with the increase in Treasury securities. This imbalance raises concerns about market dysfunction during periods of stress.
Logan's focus on NBFIs underscores their growing influence in these markets and the necessity for strengthening their intermediation capabilities. She stressed the importance of effective risk management practices, such as broader central clearing and adherence to best practices proposed by industry groups. Furthermore, she highlighted the Federal Reserve's efforts to ensure resilient funding liquidity through its monetary policy implementation framework, which includes ample reserve supply and standing ceiling facilities.
Operational readiness and enhancements to the Standing Repo Facility (SRF) were among the key points Logan emphasized. Depository institutions have made significant strides in preparing to borrow from the discount window, and the SRF’s effectiveness could be further bolstered by introducing morning operations and central clearing. These measures aim to address intraday funding needs and align with broader market transitions.
As the conversation unfolded, Logan invited panelists to share insights into how markets navigated high volatility and large flows earlier this year. Their perspectives provided valuable context for understanding the evolving landscape of NBFIs and their impact on financial stability. The discussion underscored the need for continued collaboration between regulators, market participants, and policymakers to fortify the resilience of Treasury and money markets.
Looking ahead, the outlook for NBFIs remains pivotal. As Logan noted, ensuring strong risk management practices and enhancing intermediation capacity will be crucial for maintaining market stability. By fostering innovation and adaptability, the financial ecosystem can better withstand future challenges, reinforcing the foundational role of Treasury and money markets in the global economy.