Oklahoma Introduces ‘America First’ Certification Test for Teachers from Liberal States

Oklahoma Sets New Standards for Teacher Certification from Liberal States

Oklahoma has taken a pioneering step by becoming the first state to mandate a certification test for teachers relocating from liberal-leaning states. The test aims to ensure alignment with Oklahoma’s educational curriculum standards.

Ryan Walters, the state’s Superintendent, announced plans to unveil this new certification test in the coming week. He expressed to Fox News Digital that it will specifically target educators moving into Oklahoma from states typically categorized as blue.

“Oklahoma offers the largest signing bonuses for teachers in the nation. If you rank in the top 10 percent of teachers nationwide, you can receive a signing bonus of up to $50,000. Consequently, we have witnessed an influx of teachers from various states drawn to Oklahoma, particularly those escaping the influence of teachers unions prevalent in their home states,” Walters remarked.

Collaboration with PragerU

The implementation of this certification test will be in partnership with the conservative think tank PragerU. The so-called ‘America First’ test will cover foundational topics, including American history, civics, and what Walters describes as “common sense” issues.

Oklahoma stands alone as the only state collaborating with PragerU on such an initiative. According to Walters, Oklahoma’s education officials have previously worked with PragerU, developing educational standards that emphasize teaching history in a manner reflective of American exceptionalism.

“We have reinstated biblical references into our history standards,” Walters asserted.

Opposition from Liberal States

The Superintendent has criticized the standards and policies adopted by states like Maine, California, and New York as fundamentally opposed to those of Oklahoma.

“Our top priority is to ensure that we recruit excellent teachers. Equally important is to prevent the recruitment of ‘woke’ educators and social justice activists into our classrooms,” Walters explained.

He has specifically pointed at California Governor Gavin Newsom as a significant influence on the changing landscape of educational policies regarding gender ideology.

The education policies in California mandate instruction focusing on gender identity and expression, requiring schools to teach about various sexual orientations. This curriculum aims to combat harmful stereotypes linked to gender.

Resistance to National Trends

Walters underscored the need to prevent such ideologies from permeating Oklahoma’s educational system. He remarked, “We are watching closely as states like Maine make efforts to counter Trump-era policies. Remember, every county in Oklahoma supported President Trump in the last election.”

Maine has actively resisted Trump’s directives, which included mandates that only recognize two genders. The state has also pushed against regulations prohibiting biological boys from participating in female sports.

Understanding the Motivation Behind Changes

Walters has emphasized the importance of tailoring Oklahoma’s educational standards to resist left-leaning ideologies infiltrating American schools. A spokesperson for PragerU articulated the need for such testing and training programs, noting that educators often fall victim to the extreme ideologies that might go unnoticed.

“We are committed to countering the negative impact of these trends by providing teachers with superior resources. It is crucial to hold educators accountable to uphold the best interests of their students,” the spokesperson stated.

Legal Questions and Challenges

Despite the push for this new requirement, there are legal uncertainties surrounding the direction of the certification test. Walters’ assertion that board approval is unnecessary faced skepticism from his colleagues. Board member Ryan Deatherage requested legal documentation supporting that claim.

Another board member, Chris Van Denhende, questioned the necessity of such tests, highlighting existing teaching contracts that already require educators to adhere to Oklahoma standards.

Walters responded pointedly, referring to Van Denhende as a “puppet for the teachers union.” He criticized those who perpetuate misleading narratives from the National Education Association, insisting, “We observe an extensive indoctrination of children like never before.”

Fox News Digital reached out to both Newsom and Van Denhende for their perspectives on these developments.

Reflecting on Educational Standards and Future Implications

The introduction of the ‘America First’ certification test marks a significant political and educational maneuver within Oklahoma. As the first state to implement such a requirement for teachers from traditionally liberal states, Oklahoma is setting a precedent that could influence educational systems across the United States.

Should this initiative gain traction, it may prompt discussions about educational standards nationwide, particularly regarding the influence of ideology in classroom settings. Observers are keeping a close eye on how this new certification process will unfold and whether it will alter the landscape of teacher recruitment and education in Oklahoma.