Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters made a statement regarding the administrative rules hearing that took place earlier today, highlighting his plans to implement new regulations aimed at bolstering student protections and ensuring taxpayer dollars are effectively used. "Today's hearing is a great step forward in the process that will lead to new rules in place to protect Oklahoma students," Walters said, according to a press release obtained by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
The proposed rules are in response to what Walters refers to as a "yearslong failure at the border" by the Biden administration, citing a need for Oklahomans to be aware of the expenses required to comply with federal mandates. Furthermore, the new regulations call for mandatory reporting in cases where school employees resign or are not re-employed due to suspicions of student abuse, as reported by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
Walters' statement also pointed to upcoming requirements that would mandate teachers to possess an understanding of American history and government on par with what is expected for new citizens. This move is part of a wider effort to instill what the superintendent calls "common sense approach" to education in the state, as stated by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
Another aspect to the rules is the provision that students should have the "unfettered right to show and display the American flag at school." Walters expressed enthusiasm for the progress of these regulations and their forthcoming review by the state legislature. "I am excited to continue moving these rules through the process of gaining legislative approval and I am confident the Legislature will agree with our common sense approach," he added in the statement. The reception of the new rules by Oklahoma's legislative body remains to be seen as the process unfolds, as per the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
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