Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters Faces Controversy Over Immigration Policy Amid Ongoing Education Struggles
Oklahoma’s state education system continues to struggle, ranking 49th nationally, despite the election of Ryan Walters as state superintendent in 2022. Walters acknowledges the challenges ahead, stating, "I was elected to turn the state’s education system around." However, his recent focus on immigration issues has sparked significant backlash.
Earlier this year, the Oklahoma State Board of Education approved a controversial proposal mandating students to disclose their immigration status during school enrollment. Walters supports this initiative, asserting it aligns with President Trump’s immigration directives. He plans to share this data with federal authorities, emphasizing the need to comply with executive orders that allow for information sharing near schools and places of worship.
The proposal still requires approval from the Oklahoma Legislature, which is expected to vote on it soon. This move has led to protests, including a notable demonstration at Carnegie Elementary School in Tulsa.
Interestingly, Walters is facing criticism from unexpected quarters, including Governor Kevin Stitt, who initially supported him. Stitt expressed skepticism about the Trump administration’s intentions, stating, "I’ve never heard him say, ‘I want to go gather up 8-year-olds’ immigration status." He even replaced three members of the Oklahoma State Board of Education due to Walters’ proposal.
In response, Walters remains resolute, countering that the governor is mistaken and asserting that they are merely following federal guidelines. "No, look, we’re going to move forward with what we’re doing," he stated, underscoring his commitment to the state’s current trajectory in education and immigration policy.
As tensions rise, the outcome of this policy proposal and its implications for students and educators in Oklahoma remain uncertain.
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