OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – On Wednesday night, Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters announced in a national news television interview that he is resigning from his role to become the CEO of the conservative Teacher Freedom Alliance.

What did Walters say?

Walters appeared on Fox News Wednesday night after teasing “big news” in a social media post.

“Liberals’ worst nightmare is about to become true,” said Walters.

Nexstar’s KFOR reached out to Walters’ offices for comment, but did not hear back.

Ryan Walters’ background

Walters is a former Oklahoma social studies teacher and was sworn in on Jan. 9, 2023. Running as a Republican, Walters beat out Democratic challenger Jena Nelson. Walters previously served Oklahoma as the secretary of education after an appointment from Governor Kevin Stitt.

When Walters was elected, he outlined several priorities, including parental choice, eliminating Critical Race Theory in classrooms, banning transgender athletes from competing in sports that do not align with their biological sex, and getting “indoctrination” out of Oklahoma classrooms.

At the time Walters took office, Oklahoma was ranked 49th in education and 47th in spending per student, according to education reports.

Ryan Walters’ agenda

Walters has been polarizing in his leadership decisions, with many Oklahomans publicly expressing praise and frustration with some of his biggest moves. Walters has previously ordered public schools to teach from the Bible to make sure students understand its historical context. He also ordered schools to show students a video of him praying for President Donald Trump.

Walters recently faced a lengthy investigation over inappropriate material that was allegedly playing on a television in his office during a private meeting, according to Education board members. The Oklahoma County District Attorney’s office said there was not enough evidence in the case to warrant criminal charges, and ultimately confirmed the content was from a Jackie Chan movie called “The Protector.” Before the investigation wrapped up, Walters falsely claimed he had been cleared of any wrongdoing, accusing the board members who reported the incident of lying and alluding to Stitt allegedly conspiring with them.

Walters also faced pushback regarding controversial social studies standards. The curriculum includes multiple references to the Bible, controversial theories about the origin of the COVID-19 pandemic, and disproven claims about the 2020 election. The Oklahoma Supreme Court issued a ruling this month, temporarily blocking the implementation of the standards.

Walters also previously tried to require schools to collect the immigration statuses of students and their guardians, but that fell flat in the legislature. The governor also condemned the move and overhauled the State Board of Education.

What happens next?

Governor Kevin Stitt must name a replacement to take over Walters’ duties. A potential candidate had not been named at the time of publication of this report. The candidate would fill the position into the end of Walters’ term in January 2027.

“I wish Ryan and his family the best in this next chapter. Oklahoma students remain my top priority, and with my first appointment to this role, I will be seeking a leader who is fully focused on the job Oklahomans expect: delivering real outcomes and driving a turnaround in our education system.”

Statement from Gov. Kevin Stitt