Oklahoma to Introduce Controversial “Loyalty Test” for Teachers Moving from Liberal States

Oklahoma is at the center of a growing national firestorm after announcing plans to implement a new requirement for teachers relocating from states such as New York and California: a so-called “loyalty test.”

The policy, championed by State Superintendent Ryan Walters, is framed as a safeguard against what he describes as “radical leftist indoctrination” in classrooms. Walters has partnered with PragerU — a conservative media outlet known for producing ideological educational content — to administer the assessment.

What the Test Includes

According to officials, the exam will quiz teachers on the U.S. Constitution, American history, and key principles of government, but with an emphasis on what Walters calls a “pro-America” perspective. He insists the measure is necessary to preserve traditional values in Oklahoma’s schools.

“We will not allow radical leftists to infiltrate our classrooms and poison the minds of our children,” Walters declared at a press conference. “This test ensures our teachers align with the Constitution, the rule of law, and the values that built this country.”

Backlash from Educators and Civil Rights Groups

The announcement has been met with swift criticism. The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) condemned the initiative, branding it an unconstitutional ideological filter that undermines the professional independence of educators.

“This is nothing more than a MAGA loyalty test wrapped in the guise of a civics exam,” an AFT spokesperson said. “It is divisive, illegal, and likely to worsen Oklahoma’s already severe teacher shortage.”

Democratic lawmakers echoed the criticism, warning that the policy could scare away qualified educators at a time when rural and urban districts alike are struggling to recruit and retain teachers. Teachers from blue states targeted by the measure also voiced outrage, arguing that the law implies they are inherently untrustworthy or “un-American.”

Support from Conservative Groups

Despite the backlash, conservative organizations have applauded the move. Local parent coalitions and school board activists have praised the measure as a defense against liberal bias in the classroom. PragerU itself said it was “honored” to support the initiative, claiming the partnership would uphold values such as liberty, limited government, and personal responsibility.

Legal Questions Ahead

Legal scholars warn the new requirement could face immediate constitutional challenges. Critics argue the test may violate First Amendment protections and amount to employment discrimination. Civil liberties organizations have already hinted at lawsuits should the policy proceed without legislative or judicial oversight.

Broader Implications

The loyalty test is set to roll out statewide in the coming months, with a pilot version already being reviewed. Walters has suggested the requirement could eventually apply to all incoming teachers, regardless of their state of origin.

As debates intensify, Oklahoma’s new mandate highlights the widening cultural and political divide over education in the U.S. — and raises the question of just how far states should go in scrutinizing the personal or political beliefs of educators.