Moving to teach in Oklahoma might soon come with a new requirement, especially if you’re coming from states like New York or California. Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters has announced a new “America First” certification exam designed to ensure that incoming educators align with the state’s conservative education standards.
Screening for ‘Indoctrination’
Walters stated the goal is to prevent teachers from “indoctrinating kids” with what he perceives as liberal ideologies. He specifically called out California Governor Gavin Newsom, accusing him of promoting “gender theory” that Oklahoma classrooms will not permit. This move signals a strong stance on curriculum control within the state.
The exam will reportedly cover U.S. history and government, while also reinforcing Oklahoma’s recently revised curriculum. Notably, this revised curriculum includes controversial claims about the 2020 election and omits lessons on George Floyd and Black Lives Matter. Walters believes these changes will “reset our classrooms back to educating our children without liberal indoctrination.”
Backlash from Teachers’ Unions
The announcement has drawn sharp criticism from teachers’ unions nationwide. Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, called the policy a “huge turn off” and an “insulting” suggestion that teachers aren’t patriotic. She also commented that Walters seems to be aiming to be “MAGA in chief, not educator in chief.”
Cari Elledge, president of the Oklahoma Education Association, dismissed the test as a “political stunt to grab attention” and warned it would exacerbate the state’s existing teacher shortage crisis. David Goldberg, president of the California Teachers Association, echoed these sentiments, suggesting the plan is meant to “scare them away” and borders on satire.
Implementation and Impact
Despite the widespread backlash, Walters confirmed that the new certification test is slated to launch by August. It remains to be seen how this policy will impact teacher recruitment and the educational landscape in Oklahoma, particularly for educators coming from states with different political and social viewpoints.
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