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Reign of Terror
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Comprehensive Timeline of Ryan Walters Reign of Terror in Oklahoma and Beyond
For the first time in modern Oklahoma History, nearly every parent in Oklahoma was in agreement that Ryan Walters was bad at his job. Across party lines, Oklahomans celebrated when he officially resigned. Within days, his mandates are began to get struck down one by one.
But Ryan doesn't exist in a vacuum, he was strategically chosen and propped up to a position of power.
If he was so hated, why didn't he end up getting removed from power sooner; and more importantly: Who helped him rise to power, and how do we stop something like this from happening again?
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McAlester, Oklahoma
Ryan Walters grew up in McAlester, Oklahoma, mainly known for being the home of the oldest and largest maximum security prisons in the state.
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McAlester: the Capital of Little Dixie
by Unknown Author
For most of Ryan's formative years in this timeline, there will be a primary focus on McAlester, Oklahoma,
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"Dixie" (Union Version) - Union Civil War Song
by Kamerad Kosmos
1861-1865
Southeastern Oklahoma
For a bit of context as to why Walters growing up in "Little Dixie" matters, here is a protest song written during the civil war sometime between 1861-1865 mocking the famous Confederate anthem to show you the deeper roots of this area. The song first appeared in 1859 and was adopted by the south very quickly due to it's popularity.
The song "Dixie" was the composed by Daniel Decatur Emmett and acted as an unofficial anthem for the Confederate States of America during the Civil War. Union Dixie is a version by the north that mocks the Confederacy, saying that they are "traitors," overrun by "rattlesnakes and alligators" and asserting that the Union will be victorious, and "each Dixie boy must understand that he must mind his Uncle Sam." This version is performed by Tennessee Ernie Ford.
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History of the Oklahoma State Penitentiary
by Dan M. Reynolds
Has executed 129 Oklahomans on record by "lethal injection" since 1976 to present day.
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History_of_mcalester.php
1869
McAlester Trading Post/General Store built
"The general store was an immediate success, but J. J. McAlester recognized an even greater opportunity in the abundance of coal deposits in the area, and he began obtaining rights to the coal deposits from the Choctaws anticipating the impending construction of a rail line through Indian Territory."
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McAlester founded in 1890
1890
McAlester Founded
"In 1872 J. J. McAlester married Rebecca Burney, the daughter of a prominent Chickasaw family, allowing him citizenship in the nation. This enabled him to acquire control over the area's valuable coal claims."
"The thriving little community of McAlester quickly developed, with a drugstore, hotel, livery stable, and at least three other retail stores. The 1890 population stood at three thousand residents."
"Most of the original workers were of British extraction from the mines of Pennsylvania, but they were insufficient in number, so many more were imported from Europe."
"Mining was not entirely responsible for the development of McAlester. A fertile area for farming and ranching surrounded the town, with cotton being the principle cash crop."
"McAlester early developed a reputation for being a strongly Masonic town, particularly before and after World War I."
"The Scottish Rite Consistory dedicated its temple in 1907 and enlarged it in 1930, and it became one of McAlester's show places listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NR 80004521). In addition, in 1922 the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls was organized in McAlester, the location of its Supreme Temple."
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History_of_mcalester.php
JULY 1, 1907
McAlester North Town and South McAlester Combined
"... the United States Congress passed an Act joining the two communities as a single municipality, the action being required since the towns were under Federal jurisdiction in Indian Territory. The separate entities of McAlester and South McAlester were combined under the single name McAlester with office-holders of South McAlester as officials of the single town."
"Designation as a single community by the United States Post Office came on July 1, 1907, nearly five months before Oklahoma Statehood, which caused a redrawing of county lines and designations and the majority of Tobucksy County fell within the new lines of Pittsburg County."
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Oklahoma State Prison – 1914 • Correctional Peace Officers Foundation
by Denise
MAY, 1909
Two years after Oklahoma became a state, construction began for the prison that would be completed in 1914.
Bank robber David Koontz, horse thief China Reed and Tom Lane, convicted of forgery, drew a weapon on J.W. Martin and demanded he open an inner gate near the prison storeroom. It was unclear how Koontz had acquired the Smith and Wesson six shooter he held in Martin’s face. Most believed, at the time, that an accomplice had smuggled the weapon to him.
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Economic Impact in McAlester
1920 - McAlester Economy Falls
"The boll weevil almost completely destroyed cotton production, and by 1920 the railroads were converting to the use of oil as fuel for their locomotives, which almost destroyed the market for coal. That, together with the Great Depression, stalled McAlester's growth, and it did not see a large population spurt until World War II."
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Losing Little Dixie: How Decades Of Democratic Dominance Came To An End In Southeast Oklahoma
by https://www.kgou.org/people/logan-layden
Fast forward to the lead-up to statehood in 1907. Indian Territory — eastern Oklahoma — petitions to be its own state, called Sequoyah, and is denied, in part because Sequoyah would be a solidly Democratic state.
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Entry
1942
McAlester Economic Boom
"... two large government projects strained the town's housing capacity. A prisoner-of-war (POW) camp was built adjacent to the northern city limits, and a huge U.S. Naval Ammunition Depot was constructed just a few miles south of town."
"The POW camp housed three thousand German prisoners for three years."
"The Naval Ammunition Depot, changed to the U.S. Army Ammunition Plant in 1977..."
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1960s
McAlester Downtown Reformation
"The downtown area was transformed in the 1960s and 1970s under the twin federal programs of Urban Renewal and Model Cities."
"Two widely known annual events exclusive to McAlester are the Italian Festival on the weekend before Memorial Day, and the "behind the walls" prison rodeo on the weekend before Labor Day."
"... a large Miners Monument at Chadick Park is a fitting tribute to the industry that founded the town and a memorial to those miners who lost their lives in the hazardous occupation of coal mining. At the end of the twentieth century the town had fifteen properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places, including the Mass Grave of Mexican Miners in Mount Calvary Cemetery (NR 80003297)."
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JULY 27, 1973
"In July 1973 the Oklahoma State Prison at McAlester erupted into one of the worst prison riots in U.S. history. Crowded conditions that led to the riot had been in place almost since the facility's construction in 1911. Housing capacity for eleven hundred inmates was surpassed in 1920, and by 1973 the prison population exceeded twenty-two hundred. Gov. David Hall's refusal to sign parole recommendations for drug offenders and individuals convicted of violent crimes had contributed to prison overcrowding. Poorly trained correctional officers, violence perpetrated by the "convict bosses," and other factors also led to prisoners' discontent."
"The riot caused more than $20 million in damage..."
Also see this very detailed account of the injustice inflicted upon those who were prisoners at the McAlester location.
"The riot caused more than $20 million in damage..."
Also see this very detailed account of the injustice inflicted upon those who were prisoners at the McAlester location.
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December, 1985
"In March 1974 inmate Bobby Battle, an African American, won a lawsuit against Warden Park J. Anderson and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for alleged cruelty and discrimination. U.S. District Court Judge Luther Bohanon ruled in favor of Battle and subsequently handed down a written opinion listing forty-three orders to corrections officials concerning minimum standards for the prisoners' medical care, housing, and safety. Despite changes in prison conditions, another riot occurred at the Oklahoma State Prison in December 1985."
Baby Walters is Born
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Article
Data on McAlester Oklahoma demographics.
by @usafacts
MAY 23, 1985
Let's start at the beginning: In south east Oklahoma, Pittsburg County to be specific, Ryan Walters was born in McAlester, Oklahoma in 1985 to Randy Walters and Debbie Walters. His father worked as a bank executive and his mother worked at Eastern Oklahoma State College.
As a Gemini, it is important to note that Ryan Walters is unfortunately also... a Gemini. 💔
Both of Ryan's parents graduated from Harding University, a Christian liberal arts institution located in Arkansas. This college consistently ranked one of the "Top 25 Most Conservative Colleges in the United States"; Ryan Walters attended Harding University and followed in his parents footsteps. For now we will go in chronological order, but it is important to note his parents and community influence.
His "normal" is not what most Oklahoman's grew up with. Additionally, his parents heavily indoctrinated him into the Church of Christ which heavily influences his political agenda.
To give you a better picture of McAlester and Pittsburg County, I have attached a link to USA Facts with publicly available data about the population between 1985-2022 broken down by race, ethnicity, income, age, homeownership, sex, political affiliation and more.
His "normal" is not what most Oklahoman's grew up with. Additionally, his parents heavily indoctrinated him into the Church of Christ which heavily influences his political agenda.
To give you a better picture of McAlester and Pittsburg County, I have attached a link to USA Facts with publicly available data about the population between 1985-2022 broken down by race, ethnicity, income, age, homeownership, sex, political affiliation and more.
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McAlester to Celebrate 100th Birthday All Year Centennial Plans Include Opening Time Capsule
by @theoklahoman_
MARCH 15, 1999
"McAlester has two birth dates."
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Hate Map
by Hatewatch Staff
No note added.
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McAlester's Ties to Religion
2025
As of 2025, McAlester has at least 60 churches within city limits.
Ryan Walters Begins Campaign
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Walters graduates from McAlester High School
by Adrian O'Hanlon III | Editor
MAY, 2004
Walters graduated from McAlester High School in 2004. A link to this yearbook can be found here.
During high school, there is little record of any accomplishments by Walters.
However, there is a list of scandals listed by the Church of Christ. Personally, I am not aware of the differences in the offshoots of the Church of Christ outside of a few reddit posts here and there; I may explore later.
For now, see below for a list of scandals in and around the time Ryan Walters grew up in the church.
Scandals and lawsuits include:
Walters graduated from McAlester High School in 2004. A link to this yearbook can be found here.
During high school, there is little record of any accomplishments by Walters.
However, there is a list of scandals listed by the Church of Christ. Personally, I am not aware of the differences in the offshoots of the Church of Christ outside of a few reddit posts here and there; I may explore later.
For now, see below for a list of scandals in and around the time Ryan Walters grew up in the church.
Scandals and lawsuits include:
- • 1984 in Collinsville, Oklahoma - The Tragic Collinsville Church of Christ case is taken to court and the jury awarded the Marian Guinn $309,000 in damages.
- • 1988 in Canute, Oklahoma - The town of Canute vs. Church of Christ case occurred because the church violated City Ordinances and State Health Department regulations.
- • 1995 in Seminole, Oklahoma - They took someone to court for $59.83
- • 1999 in Granite, Oklahoma - Weird situation
- • 2014 in Altus, Oklahoma - Church of Christ pastor arrested for pedophilia and other abuses stepdaughter for at least 7 years.
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Walter's Linkedin
Work Experience
Executive Director of Oklahoma Achieves from May 2019 to May 2020
History Teacher (years unlisted)
Chief Executive Officer of Every Kid Counts Oklahoma from May 2020 - Present
Chief Executive Officer of Teacher Freedom Alliance from October 2025 - Present
Education
Bachelor's Degree, History from 2006-2010
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Access to this page has been denied
MAY 17, 2013
Okla. church makes nat’l hate group list
“Tom Vineyard, for instance, made the claim that 33 percent of child molesters in this country are gay. That is a flat out falsehood.” said Potok. “And if the man knew how to do any research, or perhaps even read a bit. He would know that that is a lie. Let me say that again. That is a lie. It is untrue and it has the effect of demonizing, in one of the most remarkable ways you can do that in this society, an entire group of human beings.”
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February 18, 2015
by David Dishman | Staff writer
FEBRUARY 18, 2015
Walter's wins "Teacher of the Year" award in McAlester, Oklahoma in 2015. He states he is "honored and humbled" to be chosen because of his "excellence" in teaching history, special education, and was given accolades for caring about the McAlester community which was his high school alma mater.
He made it into the finalists to possibly win Oklahoma State Education Teacher of the Year but he did not win.
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New Oklahoma Achieves director will miss MHS, students
by Adrian O'Hanlon III | News Editor
JUNE 1, 2019
"He would be leaving soon to become the Executive Director of Oklahoma Achieves, a nonprofit education initiative in Oklahoma City."
"He believes his new position will allow him to help more students."
"Oklahoma Achieves is a nonprofit founded by the Oklahoma State Chamber that focuses on involving businesses in education. The program was formerly known as the Oklahoma Educated Workforce Initiative and builds business coalitions to improve education across the state."
"Walters said the group will collect data from schools across the state... ...He plans to use that information to broaden the conversation about certain education policies and work with legislatures, Governor Kevin Stitt's office, schools, business leaders, and more."
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GOVERNOR STITT NAMES RYAN WALTERS SECRETARY OF EDUCATION
SEPTEMBER 10, 2020
Governor Kevin Stitt today named CEO of Every Kid Counts Oklahoma and public school teacher Ryan Walters as his Secretary of Education, a cabinet position that requires Senate confirmation.
"Ryan Walters is a committed educator who has dedicated his life to moving the needle in educational outcomes for all Oklahoma students and to supporting his fellow teachers," said Gov. Stitt. "His perspective as a public school teacher, and his leadership experience as the CEO of Every Kid Counts Oklahoma, will be invaluable as we continue to work toward Top Ten results in education."
"Ryan Walters has been a highly respected teacher committed to his students and their success. Our collaboration with Ryan began in 2016, when he was named an Oklahoma Teacher of the Year finalist, and has continued through his membership on my Teacher Advisory Council. He is a great choice, and we look forward to strengthening our partnership in his new role as Secretary of Education during this important time of continued service." – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister
"Ryan is an excellent choice to serve as Governor Stitt’s Secretary of Education. He is a remarkable classroom teacher that has a heart for kids and improving educational outcomes for all students across the state. I have had the privilege to work with him on numerous educational initiatives over the past few years, and I’m excited to continue our work together to lead Oklahoma to become “Top Ten” in education." – Representative Rhonda Baker (R-Yukon)
"Ryan is one of the most remarkable educators to have served students at McAlester Public Schools, and I am excited about his nomination to join Governor Stitt’s cabinet as Secretary of Education. Ryan’s commitment to excellence in the classroom translates into his passion for achieving excellence in education across our state. Ryan has also committed to empowering teachers throughout his career and ensuring educators have their voices heard when it comes to how Oklahoma students would benefit most from their education. We are proud to have Ryan as a longstanding member of the McAlester Public Schools family; as a student and as a teacher, Ryan has set a standard for McAlester Buffaloes for generations to come!"
– Randy Hughes, McAlester Public Schools Superintendent
"Ryan is an energetic and innovative educator who is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure his students have access to the best opportunities as part of their educational journeys. Ryan taught at Millwood Public Schools last year – and continues to do so virtually this year, ensuring that students at Millwood have access to Advanced Placement curriculum. Though this school year has looked a bit different than years past, Ryan has provided a significant opportunity for his students to continue to learn. He’s ensuring every single one of our students is ready to move forward in their education regardless of the unprecedented circumstances this school year has presented. I’m excited for Ryan to bring his enthusiasm and willingness to innovate into his new role as Secretary of Education." – Cecilia Robinson-Woods, Superintendent of Millwood Public Schools
"I was pleased to hear about Ryan’s nomination to become Secretary of Education under Governor Stitt. For years, Ryan has served Oklahoma students as a teacher and as a leader in pushing for excellence in Oklahoma education. Through his work at Oklahoma Achieves, and more recently at EKCO, Ryan shared his passion to connect Oklahoma students with resources and support from all aspects of our state, and by empowering business leaders and teachers who play a role in ensuring all students have access to excellent education. I know he will continue to bring this level of enthusiasm into his new role and look forward to seeing significant progress in our state thanks to his commitment to excellence and to the Governor’s goal to make Oklahoma a Top Ten state." – Chad Warmington CEO and President of the State Chamber of Oklahoma
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Voters Oppose Book Bans in Libraries
MARCH, 2022
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McAlester H.S. graduate announces run for new state education superintendent
by Jim Grego District 17 State Representative
JULY 23, 2021
"This week, I wish to congratulate Ryan Walters, a McAlester graduate as well as former history teacher at McAlester High School, on his bid to become our next State Superintendent of Education. Ryan is a young man with a bright future, and I have worked with him regularly in his role as Secretary of Education. He is a great resource on all education issues." -Jim Grego District 17 State Representative
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9.7K views · 184 reactions | This year’s Outstanding Young Alumnus is Ryan Walters (‘10). After graduating, Walters taught history at McAlester High School in his hometown for eight years. In 2016 he was selected as an Oklahoma Teacher of the Year Finalist, which led to his role as the Oklahoma Secretary of Education and Executive Director of Every Kid Counts Oklahoma. Fascinated with history from an early age, Walters loves learning about stories and the people that make them. “The better I understand human nature, the better I understand life and how to make decisions, the better I understand God because we are all made in his image.” At Harding, Walters was nurtured by faculty mentors in the department of history and political science as well as in the College of Education. He has since become a mentor for so many others, making a difference in the lives of students, fellow educators and communities in his home state of Oklahoma. Learn more about him and other award recipients: https://bit.ly/HUAlumniAward21. #comehomeHU21 | Harding University
October 22, 2021
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Big Mac: A trip down history lane
by @BartlesvilleEE
https://www.examiner-enterprise.com/story/news/2021/11/17/big-mac-trip-down-history-lane/8636984002/
NOVEMBER 17, 2021
"I’ve been behind the walls at Lansing many times doing research. Built by President Abraham Lincoln, the prison is laid out on 2,314 acres and many of the cell blocks still in use actually date back to the Civil War era. The ethnic makeup of the prisoners usually runs around 54% Caucasian, 36% African American, 5% Asian, 2% Indian and 3% “other.” Although I haven’t been there for a few years..."
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Tulsa Charter Leaders Charged with Massive Fraud | Current Events | National Center for the Study of Privatization in Education (NCSPE) | Teachers College, Columbia University
JUNE 25, 2022
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Boston Children's Hospital warns employees over far-right online harassment campaign
by NBCNews
AUGUST 16, 2022
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What will history say about Oklahoma superintendent candidate Ryan Walters? He aims to find out.
by @theoklahoman_
OCTOBER 31, 2022
Walters, 37, has become an increasingly controversial figure in Oklahoma politics with his culture-war platform, skepticism toward federal education funding and support for private-school vouchers. His consistent messaging against “left-wing indoctrination” and transgender identities caused some to brand him divisive and extreme.
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Ryan Walters: Gross Misconduct — Oklahoma Appleseed Center for Law & Justice
JANUARY 2023
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Behind the ‘grassroots’ movement for Oklahoma school vouchers championed by Ryan Walters
by Ben Felder
FEBRUARY 3, 2023
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'Pretty graphic': Oklahoma lawmaker confirms Ryan Walters sent him pornographic images
by David Chasanov
MARCH 30, 2023
"Some Oklahoma lawmakers say State Superintendent Ryan Walters emailed them pornographic material, claiming this is what's available in our schools."
"Rep. McBride says Walters emailed about 10 pornographic images to him and other lawmakers without sharing any details about which schools have that material."
"Rep. McBride asked Walters to attend Thursday's house appropriations and budget education subcommittee meeting, and present the evidence of pornography in public schools. But, Fox 25 is told that Walters said he couldn't make it."
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We fact-checked Ryan Walters’ claims about pornography in Oklahoma schools
APRIL 13, 2023
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Public Awareness Campaign - Teacher Unions
by Oklahoma State Department of Education
MAY 26, 2023
Aired at the state board of education meeting
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Over $215K seized as investigation into former Tulsa Public Schools exec continues, feds say
by Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Tulsa World
MAY 31, 2023
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State Superintendent Ryan Walters defends parental rights group named extremist by SPLC
by Jonathan Greco
JUNE 8, 2023
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Inside Moms for Liberty’s Close Relationship With the Proud Boys
by David Gilbert
JUNE 20, 2023
It’s not just Proud Boys that Moms for Liberty has allegedly gotten involved with, however. A VICE News investigation has uncovered links between numerous Moms for Liberty chapters and extremist groups like the Proud Boys, Three Percenters, sovereign citizen groups, QAnon conspiracist, Christian nationalists, and in one case, with the founder of the AK-47-worshiping Rod of Iron Ministries church in Pennsylvania. Around the country, Moms for Liberty has formed links with extremist groups and militias, which are joining forces with the “parental rights” group at protests and school board meetings, and in turn pushing the already far-right organization toward even more extreme ideology.
And in Pike County, Pennsylvania, the local Moms for Liberty chapter has close ties to another extremist group: The Rod of Iron Ministries, the MAGA-loving religious sect that worships with AR-15s, whose leader was tear gassed during the Capitol riot, and which has close ties to multiple other far-right and Christian nationalist groups.
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Moms for Liberty's Hamilton County chapter apologizes for quoting Hitler in newsletter
by @indystar
JUNE 21, 2023
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Ryan Walters calls Moms for Liberty conference the most important to happen in Philadelphia since 1776
by Jonathan Greco
JUNE 30, 2023
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State Superintendent Ryan Walters discusses indoctrination, Tulsa Race Massacre at county GOP meeting
by Teegan Smith, Peggy Dodd
JULY 7, 2023
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Ryan Walters defends comments on Tulsa Race Massacre, claims words taken out of context
by David Chasanov
JULY 7, 2023
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Moms for Liberty among conservative groups named 'extremist' by civil rights watchdog
JUNE 7, 2023
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Arkansas education chief stands out as voice of reason at Moms for Liberty rally | Arkansas Advocate
by Sonny Albarado
JULY 10, 2023
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Walters threatens TPS with accreditation lowering after religious freedom rally
by https://www.publicradiotulsa.org/people/max-bryan
JULY 21, 2023
After the rally, Walters said “religious liberties” means people in public schools may exercise any faith freely but defended Ashley’s actions. He also said atheism “is the de facto religion” of Oklahoma public schools, and claimed faith is under attack.
The rally itself was contentious — before and during the speeches, protesters and supporters yelled at each other. A protester blared a siren over Ashley as she prayed to open the rally. Another threatened to press charges against a supporter who touched her.
During his speech, state Senator Dana Prieto said “a lot of people wet their Huggies” after Ashley prayed at the graduation.
“I can see some people here who are wetting their Huggies,” Prieto said to the crowd.
“Unfortunately, it’s not just woke mobs out here at rallies, but you also have a woke mob at Tulsa Public Schools,” Walters told the crowd at the rally.
Several clergy of other faiths were present at the rally in protest. The protesters referenced them as they chanted over the speakers.
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Oklahoma Secretary of Education resigns, cites ‘complexity and political environment’
by Kaylee Douglas/KFOR
JULY 25, 2023
In January, Governor Kevin Stitt reappointed now State Superintendent Ryan Walters as Education Secretary until 2027.
However, his appointment was never confirmed by the Senate and the Oklahoma Attorney General said Walters could not hold the Secretary of Education position while also being State Superintendent.
So, Gov. Stitt appointed Dr. Katherine Curry as the new Secretary of Education in April.
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Bomb threats disrupt two schools. Did right-wing LibsofTikTok posts help prompt them?
by @usatoday
AUGUST 25, 2023
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Why Tulsa public schools are under threats of takeover in Oklahoma
AUGUST 29, 2023
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Democrats push for investigation of Ryan Walters, Oklahoma’s firebrand schools superintendent
by NBCNews
AUGUST 29, 2023
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6 signs Moms for Liberty have come to your town
by @ACLU_SC
OCTOBER 23, 2023
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City Elders: National Dominionist Group Puts Down Roots In The Valley
by ASHLYN CAMPBELL Daily News-Record
NOVEMBER 6, 2023
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Far-right group Moms for Liberty reports more than $2 million in revenue in 2022
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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Group calls for Ryan Walters to resign over video on prayer at Prague Elementary
by Murray Evans
NOVEMBER 30, 2023
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ICYMI: Fraudulent MAGA Political Operation Moms For Liberty Exposed…
by @hrc
DECEMBER 15, 2023
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Libs of TikTok creator accused of inspiring school bomb threats named to Oklahoma library board
by NBCNews
JANUARY 23, 2024
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Walters Names Chaya Raichik of “Libs of TikTok” to Library Media Advisory Committee
JANUARY 23, 2024
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Libs of TikTok creator Chaya Raichik appointed to Oklahoma’s library review committee
by Cheyenne Derksen, M. Scott Carter
JANUARY 24, 2024
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Honoring Nex Benedict, a 16-Year-Old Non-Binary Oklahoma High School…
by @hrc
FEBRUARY 21, 2024
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Oklahoma education superintendent under fire for anti-LGBTQ rhetoric after Nex Benedict's death
by ABC News
FEBRUARY 28, 2024
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Oklahoma Department of Education spends $50,000 on video work with Texas-based firm
by Colleen Wilson
MARCH 22, 2024
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Oklahoma House passes bill to bring back the nation's largest prison rodeo
by Katie Arata
MARCH 10, 2024
McAlester, Oklahoma had shut this down
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Ryan Walters | GLAAD
by Matthew Breen
MARCH 11, 2024
Told ABC News, “we’re not going to lie to students. And we’re not going to push a gender ideology.”
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Ryan Walters’ response to Nex Benedict’s death only causes more pain for Oklahoma’s LGTBQ+ families | Editorial
by Clytie Bunyan
MARCH 15, 2024
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Ryan Walters’ shadow looms over election losses in three Tulsa School Board races
APRIL 5, 2024
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Following a Furious Rebuke from Outraged Oklahomans, Ryan Walters…
by @hrc
APRIL 18, 2024
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Oklahoma state superintendent's $50,000 contract raises questions on political ties
by Wendy Suares
MAY 14, 2024
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Moms for Liberty plotting election season comeback after threesome scandal & rape allegations - LGBTQ Nation
by Greg Owen
MAY 24, 2024
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Walters taps Heritage Foundation president, other conservative figures for social studies committee
by https://www.kgou.org/people/beth-wallis
JULY 9, 2024
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Right-wing pundits, out-of-state advocates to help create Oklahoma social studies standards • Oklahoma Voice
by Nuria Martinez-Keel
JULY 9, 2024
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Access to this page has been denied
JULY 10, 2024
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Walters Recruits Project 2025 and Prager U Architects for Social Studies Overhaul for Oklahoma Schools
by @BlackWallStTime
JULY 11, 2024
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Tulsa superintendent to resign amid battle with Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters
by Beth Wallis
JULY 26, 2023
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Ryan Walters' Own Religious Sect Tries to Explain Him... - The Lost Ogle
AUGUST 6, 2024
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New $60K contract to prop up Superintendent Ryan Walters amid ban on wasteful PR spending
by Wendy Suares
AUGUST 19, 2024
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Skyrocketing Test Gains in Oklahoma Are Largely Fiction, Experts Say
by Linda Jacobson
AUGUST 21, 2024
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Tulsa superintendent to resign amid battle with Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters
by Beth Wallis
AUGUST 23, 2023
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Top Oklahoma school official warns ‘do not test me’ after forcing out Tulsa superintendent
by NBCNews
AUGUST 24, 2023
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The Wall basher: Ryan Walters is trying to erase the separation of church and state in Oklahoma - Americans United
by @americansunited
NOVEMBER 30, 2023
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Ryan Walters’ Horrible Election Day: Oklahoma Voters in Enid and…
by @hrc
APRIL 3, 2024
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Bixby Public Schools superintendent files lawsuit against Ryan Walters
by Jonathan Greco
AUGUST 15, 2024
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FOX23 Investigates: Controversial post from State Supt. Walters turns into battle over state law
AUGUST 20, 2024
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Perhaps Ryan Walters is a classic victim of the corrupting potential of political power | Guest
by @theoklahoman_
SEPTEMBER 5, 2024
But even before taking office as state superintendent in January 2023, Walters began exhibiting the worst behaviors of a teacher. These behaviors can generally be described as negative and anti-student. They are the kind of behaviors that either cause teachers to quit or get teachers fired. They are behaviors that are counter-effective to creating the healthy teacher-student relationships that foster learning.
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Skyrocketing Test Gains in Oklahoma Are Largely Fiction, Experts Say
by Linda Jacobson
SEPTEMBER 27, 2024
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Oklahoma State Department of Education Communications with Far-Right Education Groups
October 8, 2024
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Fall and folly of Ryan Walters
by Gazette staff
OCTOBER 21, 2024
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Ryan Walters sends notice to Oklahoma parents to prepare for educational policy changes
by Josh Wallace
NOVEMBER 8, 2024
The federal government has hijacked our education system, using taxpayer dollars to impose harmful policies and control what is taught in our schools. This memo addresses five major areas where eliminating the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) and moving to block grants would restore authority to states, allowing communities—not Washington bureaucrats—to decide what is best for their children.
- 1. Championing Parents’ Rights: The Biden administration labeled parents as threats and tried to silence their concerns. States, when restored control, will ensure parents’ voices are not just heard but respected.
- 2. Ending Social Indoctrination in Classrooms: Federal funds have been used to force radical agendas, like promoting boys in girls' sports and pushing divisive gender and racial ideologies. With block grants, states can reject these mandates and focus on real education over propaganda.
- 3. Protecting Patriotism in Curriculum: Schools are pressured to teach books that undermine American values and ignore the truth about American history. By removing federal overreach, states can make sure students learn a patriotic curriculum that respects our country and honors our shared heritage.
- 4. Stopping Illegal Immigration’s Impact on Schools: Open border policies flood schools with unregulated demands, stretching resources meant for American kids. States, free from federal overreach, could manage these impacts in ways that protect classrooms and prioritize their communities.
- 5. Blocking Foreign Influence in Our Schools: Federal policies tie funding to outside agendas, allowing China and other adversaries to infiltrate our education system. Without federal strings, states could reject foreign interference and ensure schools promote only American values.
As we prepare for important and impactful changes to public education policy in the coming months, the Oklahoma State Department of Education will be directing agency resources to ensure the above priorities are championed and that Oklahoma schools are equipped to smoothly adapt while maintaining the highest standards of education for our students.
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FOX 25 uncovers the Heritage Foundation's sweeping influence in Oklahoma education
by Wendy Suares
NOVEMBER 18, 2024
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The Heritage Foundation's Influence on Oklahoma Education
by Anna Littlejohn
https://theblackwallsttimes.com/2024/11/19/the-heritage-foundations-influence-on-oklahoma-education/
NOVEMBER 19, 2024
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Tulsa judge has 30 days to decide on defamation lawsuit against State Supt. Ryan Walters
by Mecca Thompson/KFOR
NOVEMBER 30, 2024
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Oklahoma Rural Schools Coalition | City Elders-learn who they are, what their vision is, and where they are strategically placed in our Oklahoma government to be able to meet their goal... | Facebook
DECEMBER 6, 2024
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Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters endorses immigration raids in schools
by Nuria Martinez-Keel, Oklahoma Voice
JANUARY 24, 2025
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Timeline: What led to the fallout between Gov. Kevin Stitt and Ryan Walters
by Jonathan Greco
FEBRUARY 14, 2025
Recap of the Timeline from December 2024-feb 13 2025
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Walters Touts Alternative to Woke Teachers' Unions
MARCH 10, 2025
"They will no longer be harassed into joining an organization that is laser-focused on breaking up the moral fiber of America. We've been clear that we're not going to tolerate distractions to education like CRT, DEI, gender ideology, and antisemitism in our classrooms."
"There's new leadership in the White House and we're going to make education great again with the help of the Freedom Foundation and Secretary McMahon." added Walters.
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Ryan Walters at the nexus of Oklahoma lawsuits over transparency, religious freedom • Oklahoma Voice
by Nuria Martinez-Keel
APRIL 2, 2025
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Walters announces lawsuit against Freedom From Religion Foundation over school prayer
APRIL 2, 2025
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Ryan Walters at center of Oklahoma lawsuits over transparency, religious freedom
by Nuria Martinez-Keel, Oklahoma Voice
APRIL 3, 2025
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Oklahoma Unveils $20K Signing Bonuses for Special Ed
APRIL 14, 2025
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Meet the Oklahoma state superintendent pushing Trumpism into schools
MAY 8, 2025
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Walters says board members, teachers’ unions, Gov. Stitt set up nudity scandal to ‘assassinate’ him
by https://www.publicradiotulsa.org/people/elizabeth-caldwell
JULY 30, 2025
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‘Nowhere near’ a done deal: U.S. Dept. of Education says Walters’ state testing announcement premature
by Beth Wallis
AUGUST 14, 2025
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'A tremendous distraction:' Ryan Walters addresses quarrel with Board of Education members
by News On 6
AUGUST 21, 2025
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Education Secretary Linda McMahon snubs Oklahoma’s extremist superintendent of schools
by @YahooNews
AUGUST 22, 2025
President Donald Trump’s Education Secretary Linda McMahon didn’t want Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters anywhere near her when she toured a charter school in Oklahoma City this week.
The move followed Walters’s false claim that the Trump administration had approved his plan to eliminate statewide end-of-year testing. On a right-wing outlet earlier this month, Walters bragged, “We went to the Trump administration and they said they were all for it,” Notus reports.
That wasn’t true. McMahon publicly corrected him, telling reporters the waiver “has not gone through all the different steps that it needs to.” Asked whether she’d meet Walters during her visit, she shot back: “I don’t believe that’s on my schedule today.”
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State Supt. Walters highlights success of Oklahoma's Teacher Signing Bonus Program
by Alexandra Sharfman
SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
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Records show Ryan Walters has a pattern of poor attendance at state boards • Oklahoma Voice
by Nuria Martinez-Keel
SEPTEMBER 5, 2025
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Public Education as a Political Weapon: The Rise of Ryan Walters - American Oversight
by American Oversight
SEPTEMBER 10, 2025
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How Tulsa metro schools are responding to Ryan Walters' letter about moment of silence for Charlie Kirk
by News On 6
SEPTEMBER 15, 2025
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State Superintendent Ryan Walters threatens to ban any teacher who 'attempts to glorify' Charlie Kirk's death
by Nuria Martinez-Keel, Oklahoma Voice
SEPTEMBER 15, 2025
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Oklahoma schools chief threatens to ban teachers over ‘disgusting attacks’ on Charlie Kirk • Oklahoma Voice
by Nuria Martinez-Keel
SEPTEMBER 15, 2025
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Superintendent Walters Launches Statewide Tutoring Investment to Accelerate Literacy and Student Success
SEPTEMBER 18, 2025
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I took Ryan Walters’ so-called ‘woke’ test for Oklahoma teachers. Now PragerU is spamming me. | Alabama Reflector
by Janelle Stecklein
September 23, 2025
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State Supt. Walters clocks over 400 national appearances amid ban on wasteful PR spending
by Wendy Suares
SEPTEMBER 23, 2025
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State superintendent calls for Turning Point USA chapter at every high school in Oklahoma
by https://www.kgou.org/people/robby-korth-1
SEPTEMBER 23, 2025
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Sept 25, 2025
- • NonDoc Media reports "Ryan Walters resigning as state superintendent to lead Teacher Freedom Alliance ‘battle tank’"
• Read Frontier reports "Ryan Walters has yet to answer questions about his pending resignation" - • McAlester News reports "EDITORIAL: Ryan Walters was a failure, best that he's gone"
- • PBS News Reports "Ryan Walters resigns as Oklahoma’s top public schools official to lead conservative educators’ group"
• Oklahoma Policy reports "In The Know: Ryan Walters to resign as state superintendent to lead national anti-teacher’s union group | How will Oklahoma fill his elected role? | Policies are driving doctors out of Oklahoma"
• NYT reports "Oklahoma Education Chief Who Promoted Bibles in Schools Will Resign"
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What is the Teacher Freedom Alliance Ryan Walters is set to lead?
by Abigail Ogle
SEPTEMBER 25, 2025
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What is the Teacher Freedom Alliance? How is Ryan Walters involved?
by News On 6
SEPTEMBER 25, 2025
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Ryan Walters Named CEO of the Teacher Freedom Alliance, Launching National Campaign to Challenge Teachers Unions - Freedom Foundation
by @freedomfdtn
SEPTEMBER 25, 2025
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Ryan Walters steps down as Oklahoma schools chief to lead anti-teachers union group
by Linda Jacobson, The 74
SEPTEMBER 26, 2025
He once called Oklahoma’s teachers union a “terrorist organization.” Now state Superintendent Ryan Walters is threatening to “destroy” teachers unions nationwide.
Walters announced his resignation Wednesday night to become CEO of the Teacher Freedom Alliance, an anti-union initiative of the Freedom Foundation, a conservative think tank.
Even before his election in 2022, Walters singled out teachers he considered too “woke” for Oklahoma schools. Once in office, he moved quickly to revoke the teaching certificates of educators accused of violating laws against so-called “divisive concepts.”
As recently as this week, he announced that every high school in Oklahoma would have a chapter of Turning Point USA, the youth-focused conservative organization Charlie Kirk founded in 2012. Most of the Wednesday’s Fox news show Walters joined focused on the growth of the organization since Kirk was killed Sept. 10 in Utah.
The Future for Walters
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22K views · 670 reactions | ‼️RYAN WALTERS UPDATE- *Since posting this as a reel this afternoon, I got an email response from OSDE press secretary Madison Cercy to my questions about her employment status, particularly that night, and whether she is on another payroll as well. “Thank you for reaching out. I do not comment on personnel matters,” she said. | Wendy Suares
SEPTEMBER 29, 2025
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Fact-checking former State Superintendent Walters' final letter to families
by News On 6
SEPTEMBER 30, 2025
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The mystery of Walters: How a beloved history teacher became Oklahoma’s culture-warrior-in-chief • Oklahoma Voice
by Linda Jacobson, The 74
OCTOBER 5, 2025
Superintendent has become known for his relentless fight against “woke ideology.” Former students call his transformation dizzying.
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14K views · 274 reactions | From saluting the flag, to directives impacting Oklahoma children with special needs, new details emerge about the culture inside OSDE under former Superintendent Ryan Walters.
Luckily, we're hearing things are rapidly changing for the better for employees at the state agency since Walters resigned, and, in turn, for Oklahoma children.
(Full story linked in the comments) | Wendy Suares
OCTOBER 7, 2025
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Walters facing ethics probe over departure
by Nuria Martinez-Keel Oklahoma Voice
OCTOBER 9, 2025
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Ryan Walters, Okla.’s Fiery Education Chief, to Step Down
by Andrea Eger, Tulsa World
SEPTEMBER 25, 2025
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Ding dong: Ryan Walters thumbing for a hitch
by Tres Savage
SEPTEMBER 28, 2025
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Teachers unions have declared war on good teachers — it’s time we fight back
by Education
OCTOBER 2, 2025
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How did Oklahoma's education ranking change over Ryan Walters' tenure? A look at the data
by @theoklahoman_
OCTOBER 4, 2025
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How Christian Nationalism Captured Oklahoma Schools
by GPAHE
OCTOBER 6, 2025
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Ryan Walters vowed to pull these teachers’ licenses. Now their cases could be dropped
by Murray Evans
OCTOBER 8, 2025
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Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting ‘lighter, happier’ after superintendent change • Oklahoma Voice
by Nuria Martinez-Keel
OCTOBER 9, 2025
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Another Ryan Walters deputy has left Oklahoma State Department of Education
by Murray Evans
OCTOBER 14, 2025
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OCTOBER 15, 2025
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Criminal case against Epic Charter Schools co-founders remains in legal limbo
by Nolan Clay
APRIL 6, 2025
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Byrdseyeviewoct2020.pdf
OCTOBER 2020
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Oklahoma County judge in charge of Epic co-founders’ case faces another request to recuse • Oklahoma Voice
by Nuria Martinez-Keel
APRIL 4, 2025
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AG to Lay Out Evidence in Epic’s Multi-Million Dollar Embezzlement Case - Oklahoma Watch
by Jennifer Palmer
MARCH 25, 2024
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Epic Charter Schools cuts 357 jobs, announces closures amid reorganization
by Jonathan Greco
JUNE 3, 2025
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Proud Boys leader was ‘prolific’ informer for law enforcement
by Undrell Maholmes/KFOR
JANUARY 27, 2021
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Former Colbert police chief and admitted former white supremacist, now an Achille reserve officer
by @KXIITV
SEPTEMBER 12, 2018
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Neo-Nazi Police Chief Gets New Job at Oklahoma Force
SEPTEMBER 18, 2018
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Ryan Walters: How a Beloved Teacher Became Oklahoma’s Top Culture Warrior
by Linda Jacobson
OCTOBER 5, 2023
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work-around-challenges-faa-academy-in-okc-braces-for-government-shutdown
SEPTEMBER 30, 2025
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Access to this page has been denied
JULY 23, 2025
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Charter contract canceled for OKC Montessori school • Oklahoma Voice
by Nuria Martinez-Keel
SEPTEMBER 15, 2025
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Here’s looking at you, me: The two jobs of Ryan Walters
by Tres Savage
JANUARY 8, 2023
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Plenty of cooks in the Oklahoma education kitchen
by Tres Savage
JANUARY 22, 2023
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Ryan Walters explores new math with budget request
by Tres Savage
OCTOBER 1, 2023
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Stitt knows how to get, how to get to Override Street
by Tres Savage
MAY 28, 2023
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Fleeing Oklahoma, teachers could ‘Fall-in’ the Red River
by Garron
MARCH 18, 2018
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The Ryan Walters Bible mandate begs a prayer for relief
by Tres Savage
JUNE 30, 2024
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First Amendment warning: 100% chance of Ryan Walters tweeting
by Tres Savage
DECEMBER 15, 2024
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Ding dong: Ryan Walters thumbing for a hitch
by Tres Savage
SEPTEMBER 28, 2025
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Coming to theaters: Character Assassination, starring Jackie Chan
by Tres Savage
AUGUST 10, 2025
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The Ryan Walters Bible mandate begs a prayer for relief
by Tres Savage
JUNE 30, 2024
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Ryan falters: Boobs, pubes cause chaos in meeting
by Tres Savage
JULY 27, 2025
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City Elders - education and discussion
by u/Possible_corn
FEBRUARY 2025
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