Full Breakdown
Ryan Walters Resigns as Oklahoma State Superintendent to Lead Teacher Freedom Alliance
9/25/2025, 9:38:12 PM
Overview of the Resignation
Ryan Walters, the Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction, announced his resignation on September 24, 2025, to become the CEO of the Teacher Freedom Alliance, a conservative organization aimed at countering teachers' unions. Walters, who has been a polarizing figure in Oklahoma education since his election in 2022, stated, “We’re going to destroy the teachers’ unions... We will build an army of teachers to defeat the teachers’ unions once and for all.” His resignation comes amid a series of controversies and criticisms regarding his policies and management style.
Background and Context
Walters' tenure has been marked by efforts to inject conservative ideologies into public education, including mandates for teaching the Bible in classrooms and promoting conspiracy theories about the 2020 presidential election. He has also been a vocal critic of teachers' unions, labeling them as "terrorist organizations" and accusing them of corrupting schools. His administration has faced scrutiny for financial mismanagement and a lack of effective communication with state lawmakers.
Key Actions and Policies
During his time in office, Walters implemented several controversial policies:
- Mandated the inclusion of the Bible in public school curricula.
- Proposed that all Oklahoma high schools establish chapters of Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization.
- Required out-of-state teachers to pass a test aimed at screening for "woke indoctrination."
- Attempted to remove certain classic literary works from school libraries, deeming them inappropriate.
These actions have drawn criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans, who argue that his approach has blurred the lines between church and state and undermined educational integrity.
Official Statements & Responses
Following Walters' announcement, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond condemned his tenure, stating it has been characterized by "a stream of never-ending scandal and political drama." He emphasized the need for a State Superintendent who prioritizes quality instruction in public schools. In contrast, the Teacher Freedom Alliance praised Walters, claiming he "fearlessly fights the woke liberal union mob."
Criticism & Opposition
Walters has faced backlash not only from political opponents but also from within his party. Critics have highlighted his failure to improve Oklahoma's education rankings, which currently sit at 50th in the nation. Some Republican lawmakers have expressed frustration over his management style and the controversies surrounding his office, with calls for his impeachment surfacing during his tenure.
What's Next
As Walters prepares to transition to his new role at the Teacher Freedom Alliance, the Oklahoma State Board of Education is expected to meet to discuss the appointment of an interim superintendent. Governor Kevin Stitt will appoint a replacement to serve the remainder of Walters' term, which ends in January 2027. Potential candidates for the position include Nellie Sanders, the current education secretary, and former state Rep. Mark McBride.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re going to destroy the teachers’ unions because we have seen [them] use money and power to corrupt our schools, to undermine our schools,” — Ryan Walters, former Oklahoma State Superintendent
- “It’s time for a State Superintendent of Public Instruction who will actually focus on quality instruction in our public schools.” — Gentner Drummond, Oklahoma Attorney General
Walters' departure marks a significant shift in Oklahoma's educational landscape, as the state grapples with the implications of his controversial policies and the future direction of its public education system.
