Ryan Walters, Oklahoma’s state superintendent of public instruction, has announced his resignation to take over as chief executive of the Teacher Freedom Alliance, a conservative nonprofit organization. This decision was revealed during an appearance on Fox News on October 25, 2023. Walters, who has been a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump and conservative educational initiatives, cited his commitment to promoting what he describes as “moral and upright American citizens” as a primary motivation for his new role.
Walters, 40, has been a polarizing figure in Oklahoma’s educational landscape. He has championed initiatives aimed at countering what he refers to as “wokeness” in public schools. Notably, he has proposed establishing Turning Point USA chapters in every high school, reflecting his desire to engage students in discussions around American values. He stated that parents and educators are eager for students to participate in dialogues that embrace free speech and American greatness.
In his new position at the Teacher Freedom Alliance, Walters plans to challenge the influence of teachers’ unions, which he claims have corrupted public education through their financial power. “We’re going to destroy the teachers unions,” he declared during his Fox News interview, signaling a confrontational approach to educational reform.
Controversial Policies and Legal Challenges
Walters has implemented several controversial policies during his tenure, including a mandate for public school teachers to incorporate the Bible into lesson plans for grades 5 through 12. He has also pushed for social studies teachers to promote conspiracy theories surrounding the 2020 election, as well as tracking the immigration status of students. Additionally, he proposed requiring teacher applicants from states like California and New York to pass an examination aimed at preventing what he labels “radical leftist ideology.”
These efforts have not been without backlash. Numerous lawsuits have been filed against Walters and the state education agency, even as Oklahoma’s performance in various educational metrics continues to decline. According to reports, the state’s national rankings in education have worsened under his leadership, raising concerns among educators and stakeholders.
Walters’ recent announcement about the establishment of Turning Point USA chapters in Oklahoma high schools is part of his broader strategy to engage students politically. The organization, founded by Charlie Kirk, aims to mobilize young, Christian conservatives and has seen increased support following Kirk’s recent public appearances.
Political Reactions
The political response to Walters’ resignation has been mixed. Genter Drummond, the Oklahoma Attorney General, criticized Walters’ administration, stating, “We have witnessed a stream of never-ending scandal and political drama.” Drummond, a fellow Republican and a candidate for governor in 2026, expressed the need for a state superintendent who prioritizes quality instruction in public schools.
Walters, a former teacher himself, was originally appointed as the Oklahoma Secretary of Education by Governor Kevin Stitt in September 2020 before being elected as state superintendent. His tenure has been marked by a series of contentious policies and a focus on cultural issues, which have divided opinions among educators, parents, and policymakers in the state.
As Walters transitions to his new role with the Teacher Freedom Alliance, it remains to be seen how his approach to education will influence Oklahoma’s schools and the broader national conversation surrounding educational reform and the role of political ideology in the classroom.