Oklahoma’s State Superintendent Ryan Walters announced the formation of an advisory panel on Monday, tasked with guiding and facilitating education reforms under the incoming Trump administration, which could include a move to abolish the federal Department of Education.
Walters highlighted that the state’s public education system stands poised for a positive shift with the new administration, underscoring President Trump’s commitment to reducing federal control and restoring power to local communities and parents in educational matters. He also stated that the search for qualified leaders to join the committee would begin soon.
Walters prepares Oklahoma schools for education policy overhaul under Trump’s administration
As Oklahoma anticipates the upcoming changes, Walters emphasized the importance of preparing the state to adapt while maintaining its core values in public education and upholding the highest academic standards for students.
He promised to announce the committee members shortly, who will be tasked with enhancing educational outcomes and driving the initiatives outlined in his recent communication to schools and parents. The committee’s role will be to implement federal education reforms swiftly, providing guidance to Oklahoma’s schools throughout the process.
One of the committee’s primary aims is to align the state’s educational policies with Trump’s directives, remove federal educational programs from Oklahoma, and offer strategic recommendations to the new administration.
Walters, who has earned attention for his vocal stance on education policy, has been mentioned as a possible candidate to lead the U.S. Department of Education under Trump. When asked about these rumors, Walters’ office refrained from commenting on whether he was considering the position.
A spokesperson for Walters emphasized that his focus remains on improving Oklahoma’s education system, particularly in terms of enhancing academic performance and eliminating what he calls “woke” indoctrination in classrooms. The spokesperson added that many Americans are eager to see Trump return to leadership in education.
