Superintendent Walters issues memo on dismantling U.S. Department of Education

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — State Superintendent Ryan Walters issued a memo on Thursday addressing the dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education proposed by President-elect Donald Trump.

In the memo, Walters outlines five areas that he says would restore authority to the states if the U.S. Department of Education is eliminated: Championing parents' rights, ending social indoctrination in classrooms, protecting patriotism in curriculum, stopping illegal immigration's impact on schools, and blocking foreign influence in our schools.

"I look forward to working hand in hand with the Trump Administration to help dismantle the decades of damage the fed govt has inflicted on public education," Walters said in an "X" post on Thursday afternoon.

The full memo can be read here.

The U.S. Department of Education, founded in 1980 during former President Jimmy Carter's administration, is primarily responsible for issuing federal grants and loans; providing research findings and statistics to parents, teachers, and lawmakers; and enforcing federal statutes to prevent discrimination in federally-funded programs and activities.

The Oklahoma Education Association posted a statement on social media on Friday afternoon in response to the memo.

State Superintendent Ryan Walters released a memorandum to school districts stating that he is preparing Oklahoma schools for the elimination of the United States Department of Education. We believe this is a premature announcement; however, we are in discussions with our legal team and legislators to ensure that funding for valuable Special Education services, etc. continues without disruption.

Oklahoma receives almost $1 billion from the federal government for education. How do we make sure our students continue to receive the resources they need?

OEA stands with the parents of students with disabilities who would be disproportionately affected by any loss of funding and protections from the USDE.

The OEA will continue to advocate for a robust education, safe classrooms, and quality teachers for all Oklahoma students, and that starts with funding and support for our schools.

Oklahoma Education Association