Principal Takes Charge of Conservative Advocacy Group
In a noteworthy move, Ryan Walters, the principal of an Oklahoma school, is stepping into the role of CEO for the Teacher Freedom Alliance, a group focused on offering teachers options outside of unionization.
Walters, who has been supervising public education in Oklahoma since January 2023, expressed strong opinions during a recent interview on Fox News, stating, “We’re going to destroy the teachers’ union.” He feels that teachers’ unions have been wielding their resources in ways that harm schools.
Initially gaining public attention last year, Walters has been vocal about his push for religious education in public schools. In June 2024, he directed all public schools in Oklahoma to incorporate Bible teachings, particularly emphasizing the Ten Commandments. Earlier this year, a bill aimed at mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in all public schools resurfaced in the state legislature.
However, many large school districts in the state chose not to comply with Walters’ directives.
This year, he also proposed allocating $3 million for a “Trump Bible” to be used in classrooms. This version would include quotes such as the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, and other patriotic texts. However, his request was denied by the state council.
In a separate controversy, Walters faced allegations over the summer concerning inappropriate images displayed in his office during a state school board meeting. He firmly denied the claims, labeling them as “categorically false.” The investigation concluded without charges being filed against him.
As part of his last initiatives as a director, Walters announced the creation of a Turning Point USA chapter in every Oklahoma high school. This organization has recently been in the spotlight due to the tragic death of its co-founder, Charlie Kirk, during a lecture event in Utah.
Walters has had an often contentious relationship with Republican Governor Kevin Stitt. Their disputes have included disagreements on policies like requiring citizenship evidence for student registrations.
Looking to the future, Walters hasn’t ruled out a potential run for Oklahoma governor in 2026. He mentioned in a previous conversation, “I’m focusing on this session because there are so many people who really want me to jump in…”
The Teacher Freedom Alliance expressed support for Walters’ leadership, asserting their commitment to opposing union influence while advocating for educational freedom and common sense.
