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TV nudity scandal, impeachment calls, a meeting no-show: Troubles pile up for Oklahoma’s schools chief

September 5, 2025

Oklahoma schools chief Ryan Walters has been absent from recent State Board of Education meetings amid multiple controversies, including allegations that explicit content appeared on his office television. These absences follow accusations made in July by two board members who claimed they saw nudity on his TV during an executive session, which Walters denied and attributed to a coordinated attack by Governor Kevin Stitt. While a preliminary investigation suggested the incident was an accidental result of a newly installed television defaulting to a pre-programmed channel, Walters faces mounting criticism over his leadership, including protests calling for his impeachment and concerns about Oklahoma's education ranking.

Who is affected

  • Oklahoma public school students and families
  • Oklahoma public education system and officials
  • State Board of Education members
  • Teachers, particularly those from California and New York applying for Oklahoma teaching positions
  • Oklahoma taxpayers

What action is being taken

  • An investigation into the July nudity incident remains ongoing
  • Protesters from Oklahoma's independent Sooner State political party are rallying to demand Walters' impeachment
  • The State Board of Education is continuing to meet despite Walters' absence, recently deciding to hire a new attorney
  • Democratic lawmakers are considering pursuing impeachment proceedings against Walters
  • Walters is requiring out-of-state teachers to take an "America First" test designed by PragerU

Why it matters

  • Walters' absence from board meetings means pressing educational issues aren't being addressed
  • Oklahoma reportedly ranks 50th in public school quality across the country
  • The state education agency is described by Senator Mark Mann as "barely functioning" and "in the worst shape it's ever been in"
  • The conflict reflects broader political tensions, including between Walters and fellow Republican Governor Kevin Stitt
  • Walters' leadership affects the implementation of educational policies, funding decisions, and administrative functions for Oklahoma's public education system

What's next

  • The State Board of Education is scheduled to have its next regular meeting on September 25.

Read full article from source: The 19th

TV nudity scandal, impeachment calls, a meeting no-show: Troubles pile up for Oklahoma’s schools chief