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OKLAHOMA CITY — The Senate Education Committee on Tuesday advanced four of Gov. Kevin Stitt’s nominations for the State Board of Education, including two who became controversial.

Sen. Carri Hicks, D-Oklahoma City, refused to carry the nominations of Estela Hernandez and Jennifer Monies, citing philosophical differences. Hicks is a former school teacher.

Monies is senior director of public affairs for Saxum, a public relations company.

Hernandez is former vice chairwoman of the Oklahoma Republican Party.

Both are from Oklahoma City.

Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, carried the nominations of Hernandez and Monies.

They were questioned on their views on school choice and local control.

Hernandez passed by a vote of 13-3. Monies passed by a vote of 10-6.