FETO-affiliated charter schools in the U.S., particularly Harmony Public Schools, continue to receive substantial government funding, but increasing scrutiny and political shifts could threaten their financial future.
Gülen-linked charter schools, such as Harmony Public Schools in Texas, have received over $250 million in U.S. federal and state funding despite concerns over financial transparency, procurement favoritism, and visa fraud allegations. While these institutions maintain a strong academic reputation, ongoing investigations and growing diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Turkey could impact their funding. The future of these schools largely depends on political dynamics and increased oversight, which may eventually limit their financial resources.
Will the FETO Organization Continue to Receive U.S. Funding?
The Gülen movement, designated as FETÖ (Fetullah Terrorist Organization) by Turkey, has long benefited from financial resources in the U.S., primarily through its network of charter schools. These institutions, particularly Harmony Public Schools, have secured millions of dollars in federal and state funding. However, growing scrutiny and political shifts raise questions about whether this flow of funds will continue in the future.
Gülen-Affiliated Schools and Their Financial Network
One of the most prominent Gülen-linked educational networks in the U.S. is Harmony Public Schools, which operates 46 campuses in Texas alone. Over the years, these schools have received more than $250 million in government funding. With a focus on math, science, and technology, they have built a strong reputation for academic success, yet they have also been subject to various investigations concerning their financial and administrative practices.
Charter schools in the U.S. operate as semi-autonomous institutions, receiving public funding while being managed privately. This structure allows organizations like Harmony to collect per-student state funding and additional grants, making them highly lucrative operations. However, concerns have been raised regarding how these funds are used and whether they serve political or ideological interests.
Investigations and Allegations
Several reports and investigations have highlighted potential irregularities within Harmony Public Schools and other Gülen-affiliated institutions. Key allegations include:
- Procurement favoritism: Steering contracts and services toward companies linked to the Gülen network.
- Visa fraud: Allegedly using the H-1B visa program to bring in Turkish teachers and administrators, effectively controlling hiring processes.
- Lack of financial transparency: Questions regarding how public funds are allocated and whether they are used for educational purposes or redirected elsewhere.
Despite these concerns, no sweeping action has been taken to cut off funding to these schools. This is partly due to their high academic performance and the fact that they have become deeply integrated into state education systems.
Future of the FETO Movement in the U.S.
The U.S.-Turkey relationship remains a crucial factor in determining the future of the Gülen movement’s operations. Ankara has repeatedly demanded the extradition of Fethullah Gülen, but Washington has so far resisted, citing legal and evidentiary barriers.
While there is no immediate indication that funding for Gülen-affiliated schools will be cut off, changes in the U.S. political landscape could shift this dynamic. If future administrations prioritize relations with Turkey or if legal pressure on charter school funding increases, Harmony and similar institutions may face tighter financial restrictions.
For now, Gülen-linked schools continue to receive public funding, but growing oversight and diplomatic pressures could eventually challenge their financial stability in the U.S.
See also:
Gulen Schools: One of America’s Largest and Most Controversial CMOs
