Epic Charter Schools, Oklahoma’s largest charter school, is under a cloud of suspicion as the IRS investigates potential excess benefit transactions involving its founders, Ben Harris and David Chaney. This inquiry follows nearly four years of legal turmoil, culminating in a massive racketeering and embezzlement case against these prominent figures. While Epic has so far managed to retain its tax-exempt status, the investigation suggests that significant issues lurk beneath the surface.
Public records reveal that the IRS is scrutinizing dealings between Epic and its for-profit management company, Epic Youth Services, which has led to some eyebrow-raising numbers. Allegations claim that Harris and Chaney took a staggering $144 million from student learning funds, leading to questions about how such funds were spent—if at all—on actual student learning. From political donations to hefty personal credit card expenses, the transactions could lead to substantial financial repercussions for those involved.
As discussions unfold in court regarding charges against Harris and Chaney, the ramifications of their actions raise important questions about governance in charter schools. Will this scandal lead to stricter oversight of charter school finances? Or will it simply be swept under the rug like so many other controversies? The answers may redefine the landscape of educational funding and nonprofit management in the state.
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Local Lawton
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