OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are speaking out about State Superintendent Ryan Walters’ resignation. The common theme from both democrats and republicans is to put Oklahoma kids first.
Walters announced his resignation on Wednesday night on national television. He’ll be serving as the CEO of the Teacher Freedom Alliance.
Republican lawmakers we reached out to about Walters’ decision to step aside didn’t say much Thursday, but some Democrats expressed relief.
Democratic Senate Minority Leader Julia Kirt said, “What we’ve seen again and again from Superintendent Walters is that he puts his personal ambitions first over kids.”
Republican Representative Dick Lowe also weighed in, saying, “It wasn’t my resignation, so I probably don’t have anything to say about somebody else’s resignation, whether he is or isn’t, if it is I look forward to whoever the governor appoints.”
Sen. Kirt believes Walters’ decision to step down is long overdue.
“The fact that he’s leaving of his own accord is really embarrassing for Republican leadership. They should have taken care of this a long time ago,” Sen. Kirt added.
Rep. Lowe said Thursday he found out, like everyone else, by seeing the announcement on television.
In Thursday’s board of education meeting, Walters didn’t address the elephant in the room, but he thanked a board member who wished him well.
Democratic Representative Forrest Bennett said, “I’m happy that he won’t be in charge of our public schools anymore, but I am not looking forward to his next stunt, because it seems like he’s found a way to take his divisive rhetoric national.”
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.
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt
In the broadcast announcement, Walters’s harshest words were for Oklahoma’s teachers unions. The Oklahoma Education Association released a statement in response to the remarks and resignation.
The Oklahoma Education Association welcomes the opportunity for our state to make a positive change for public education. One that includes: bringing the per pupil expenditure up to the regional average, competitive pay for educators, and a living wage for support employees. Now is the time to return the profession of public education to one of respect.
We will not forget the lessons learned during this administration; our state must hold its leaders accountable, and lawmakers and voters alike have a responsibility to demand integrity, respect, and a real commitment to public schools.
OEA has consistently protected public education for 136 years, standing up for students, educators, and communities against relentless attacks. We will continue to lead with the unwavering belief that every child deserves a great public school.
Oklahoma has a chance to chart a better course. In 2026, Oklahomans will go to the polls to elect new state leaders who will impact public education at every level. As educators, we implore those who care about our students and the future of public education to actively engage in the election process.
We must leave this divisiveness behind and work together as a team with parents and communities by listening to and supporting our students and education professionals. Our public schools can once again become a source of pride and promise for every community in our state.
This change is not the ending; it is the beginning of a better Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Education Association
