Oklahoma Launches ‘America First’ Test to Screen Teachers

Oklahoma has initiated a controversial screening process for teachers relocating from California and New York, introducing an “America First Assessment” aimed at evaluating applicants for what it terms “radical leftist” ideologies. This move aligns with the education agenda promoted by former President Donald Trump and is generating significant debate among educators and unions.

The state’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, Ryan Walters, outlined the assessment’s objectives during various media appearances. He expressed his determination to prevent what he described as “California’s dumpster fire” from affecting Oklahoma’s educational environment. Walters emphasized the goal of recruiting “great teachers,” stating, “We do not allow any kind of CRT being pushed on the kids. DEI. Transgenderism. We don’t do that here in Oklahoma.” His focus, he noted, is on the core subjects of reading, math, history, and science.

Oklahoma, which supported Trump with 66 percent of the vote in the last election, is set to implement six executive orders on education aimed at reversing policies from former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden. Recent surveys, such as the 57th annual Phi Delta Kappan poll, revealed that only 13 percent of respondents rated public schools as an A or B, a stark decline from 2004 figures.

The Oklahoma Department of Education has begun sharing sample questions from the assessment, which include identifying “the first three words of the Constitution” and understanding the significance of freedom of religion. Other inquiries probe historical and governmental knowledge, such as the number of senators and the structure of Congress. These questions reflect a standard of knowledge that many believe should be expected from educators.

Critics of the assessment have voiced strong objections. Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, condemned the initiative as a “MAGA loyalty test” that could deter teachers amid an ongoing shortage. She argued that Walters should prioritize student education over ideological screening. In contrast, Batya Ungar-Sargon, an opinion editor at Newsweek, defended the questions, stating, “Shouldn’t a teacher have to be able to answer” them?

The test, which has been designed by the Oklahoma-based non-profit Prager University, has drawn criticism for its perceived partisanship. Cari Elledge, president of the Oklahoma Education Association, labeled it a “political stunt” lacking educational authority. Teachers will also be required to affirm their agreement with Oklahoma’s American history standards, which were developed with input from Prager.

As the assessment rolls out, it will undoubtedly serve as a focal point in the ongoing culture wars surrounding education. Other states may look to Oklahoma’s actions as a case study for possible similar initiatives, as the educational landscape continues to evolve in response to political pressures.

In a related development, the U.S. Supreme Court deadlocked on a proposal for a religious charter school in Oklahoma, leaving in place a ruling against it. Meanwhile, the Court did reject a lawsuit challenging provisions for Bible instruction in schools. As these debates unfold, Oklahoma is reinforcing its position as a “laboratory of democracy,” allowing for diverse educational approaches to be tested under the current administration’s directives.

The implications of this assessment and its reception will play a critical role in shaping the future of education in Oklahoma and potentially across the nation. With teachers’ opinions divided and the public’s interest piqued, the outcome of this initiative will likely influence educational policy discussions for years to come.