Ryan Walters, the Oklahoma State Superintendent, is advocating for the establishment of a Turning Point USA chapter in every high school across the state. This initiative aims to ensure that students are educated on the foundational principles of the United States, reflecting the values promoted by political activist Charlie Kirk, the organization’s founder.
The announcement was made during an interview with KOKH, where Walters clarified that the initiative is not merely a suggestion but a strong recommendation. “We need to have a Turning Point chapter in every school in Oklahoma. We want to be the first state to do that,” he emphasized. Currently, there are 18 high school chapters of TPUSA in Oklahoma, as reported by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
Implementation and Compliance Measures
In a recent post on social media platform X, Walters expressed enthusiasm about partnering with TPUSA to extend its reach. He criticized what he termed the “radical leftist teachers’ unions” that he believes have influenced classrooms for too long. In response to queries about potential consequences for schools that do not comply, Walters stated, “We would go after their accreditation. We would go after their certificates.” He warned that school districts could face severe repercussions, including jeopardizing their status if they resist the establishment of these chapters.
Reflecting on the growing interest from students and parents, Walters noted, “We’ve been inundated with requests from high school students, parents wanting a Turning Point chapter.” He believes there is a compelling need for these chapters, aiming to have them operational in every high school by the end of 2023.
Community and Educational Response
Despite the ambitious plans, responses from local school districts have been limited. Only two districts provided feedback on the initiative, both opting not to comment further. This silence raises questions about how the broader educational community will navigate this directive from state leadership.
Walters has previously collaborated with Kirk on initiatives aimed at fostering civic engagement within schools. The recent push comes in the wake of Kirk’s tragic assassination on September 10, 2023, while he was speaking at Utah Valley University. In light of these events, Walters sent a letter to parents, outlining the steps necessary for students to initiate a TPUSA chapter in their schools.
The proposed initiative has sparked a diverse array of opinions among educators, parents, and students alike. As the state moves forward, the implications of Walters’ directive will unfold, potentially reshaping the landscape of civic education in Oklahoma high schools.
