In Oklahoma, State Superintendent Ryan Walters is partnering with conservative group PragerU to create a new teacher certification test—one critics say targets LGBTQ+ educators and progressive values. The test will screen teachers for ideological alignment, including their views on “American exceptionalism” and “biological sex.”
Walters says it’s about fighting “woke agendas,” but LGBTQ advocates warn it will further marginalize queer youth and educators.
The policy follows a string of anti-LGBTQ+ moves in the state, already under scrutiny after the death of 16-year-old trans student Nex Benedict.
The test is set to roll out before the 2025 school year.