Oklahoma's state Superintendent, Ryan Walters, has announced his departure from his governmental role to assume the position of CEO at the Teacher Freedom Alliance.
His decision, revealed during an appearance on "Fox News @ Night," marks a significant shift in his career trajectory, with a clear focus on challenging the influence of teachers' unions. Walters expressed his intentions unequivocally, stating, "Im stepping down as Oklahomas Superintendent to serve as incoming CEO of Teacher Freedom Alliance. Were going to destroy the teachers unions and take back our schools," in a post on X.
According to Fox News, Walters is set to commence his new role on October 1, as detailed in a press release. He has been vocal about his criticisms of union leadership, accusing them of infusing schools with politics and neglecting the interests of parents, students, and dedicated educators.
"For decades, union bosses have poisoned our schools with politics and propaganda while abandoning parents, students, and good teachers. That ends today. Were going to expose them, fight them, and take back our classrooms," Walters declared. His vision for the Teacher Freedom Alliance includes providing educators with autonomy from what he describes as a "liberal, woke agenda" that has infiltrated public education.
He emphasized, "We will arm teachers with the tools, support, and freedom they need, without forcing them to give up their values. This is a battle for the future of our kids, and we will not lose."
The announcement of Walters' departure was met with approval from Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers. She remarked, "Today is a good day for Oklahomas kids," as reported by The Hill.
Weingarten criticized Walters' tenure, suggesting his departure was unsurprising given his alleged failures in supporting educators. "Any educator worth their salt understands its impossible to educate students if you dont support teachers. Walters didnt do that in Oklahoma and now, at a time we need to bring the country together, hes trying to export his divisive rhetoric nationally," she added.
In addition to his new role, Walters has announced an initiative to establish Turning Point USA (TPUSA) chapters in all Oklahoma high schools. He praised Charlie Kirk, the founder of TPUSA, for inspiring youth to embrace American values and engage in open debate. "We will be putting TPUSA on every high school campus in Oklahoma.
Charlie Kirk inspired a generation to love America, to speak boldly, and to never shy away from debate. Our kids must get involved and active," Walters stated in a state press release. He further asserted, "We will fight back against the liberal propaganda, pushed by the radical left, and the teachers' unions. Our fight starts now."
During a conversation with Fox News Channel's Martha MacCallum, Walters confidently claimed that the demand for TPUSA chapters is widespread, noting, "Weve already got requests from every school so that makes it very easy."
This initiative aligns with his broader agenda to counteract what he perceives as liberal indoctrination within the educational system.
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