America‑First Exam for Teachers Sparks Oklahoma Backlash

Oklahoma’s “America-First” Exam for Teachers Raises Controversy When new teachers from states like California and New York seek certification in Oklahoma, they now face the America-First Exam for Teachers — a 50-question test they must ace to qualify for a teaching job. This requirement has stirred strong reactions nationwide, raising concerns about political tests, teacher shortages, and the future of education.

What Is the America-First Exam for Teachers?

Introduced in summer 2025 by Oklahoma’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, Ryan Walters, the test was designed to screen out what state officials call “woke indoctrinators” — teachers with liberal or progressive beliefs.

Developed in collaboration with the conservative nonprofit PragerU, the test covers U.S. civics, American exceptionalism, religion, gender biology, and even contested subjects like the 2020 election. Applicants must correctly answer all 50 multiple-choice questions to receive certification.

Why It Was Introduced

Superintendent Walters framed the test as a safeguard to ensure teachers from liberal states align with Oklahoma’s conservative values. He described it as a “very America-first approach” to keep liberal ideologies out of classrooms.

The test is currently required for applicants from California and New York, two major blue states. Walters has suggested it could later extend to as many as eight additional states.

Insider Criticism and Legal Concerns

The America-First Exam for Teachers has drawn swift condemnation from teachers’ unions and education experts. The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) condemned it as a political stunt that will deter good educators and deepen the state’s teacher shortage. AFT President Randi Weingarten warned that it is insulting to teachers and distracts from education’s real needs like reading, writing, and literacy.

The National Council for the Social Studies echoed concerns that the test jeopardizes academic freedom and is antithetical to constitutional principles. State Democrats called it a loyalty test masquerading as a credential check. Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair John Waldron described it as an ideological filter rather than legitimate evaluation.

Wider Context and PragerU’s Role

The involvement of PragerU — an unaccredited conservative content producer — marks a significant shift. Now, PragerU isn’t just an optional resource; it’s a gatekeeper for teacher certification in Oklahoma.

History professor Jonathan Zimmerman called this a watershed moment, where ideological material gains institutional weight rather than remaining supplementary content.

Legal and Recruitment Implications

Oklahoma law mandates recognition of out-of-state teaching credentials. Critics argue Walters may lack the legal authority to impose ideological screening. Legal challenges are already expected.

The test comes amid a worsening teacher shortage. Oklahoma has offered signing bonuses up to $50,000 for qualified teachers, making legislative hurdles particularly counterproductive.

What’s at Stake?

Teacher Recruitment
With shortages already a concern, the exam’s deterrent effect on qualified educators from outside the state could worsen staffing issues.

Educational Quality
Critics argue the focus on ideological screening shifts attention away from essential learning outcomes such as literacy, numeracy, and student support.

Precedent of Ideological Gatekeeping
Supporters call it guarding values. Opponents see it as eroding democratic norms and teacher autonomy.

State Education Politics
Tied to Walters’ broader “America First” agenda, this test reflects ongoing culture wars shaping state curriculum and policy.

Voices from Both Sides

Supporters’ View
They argue that the America-First Exam for Teachers ensures alignment with local values and protects students from ideological imbalance. Walters’ office maintains that teachers must know the Constitution, how America began, and basic biology to teach in Oklahoma.

Critics’ Perspective
Teachers and experts warn the test undermines neutrality in hiring. Randi Weingarten said:
“This MAGA loyalty test will be yet another turnoff for teachers in a state already struggling with a huge shortage.”

John Waldron added:
“If you want to see a textbook definition of indoctrination, how about a loyalty test for teachers?”

What Comes Next?

Implementation Timeline
The exam is already being administered to California and New York applicants, with full rollout expected soon.

Legal Challenges
State board members have not reviewed the test, sparking concerns around procedural oversight and legality.

Potential Expansion
Walters has signaled the test may extend to applicants from other “blue” states, although no firm list has been confirmed.

Summary: Why It Matters

The America-First Exam for Teachers is more than a test — it’s a reflection of current political tensions affecting education. It raises essential questions:

• Should teacher certification include ideological benchmarks?
• Can such requirements impact already fragile staffing solutions?
• What kind of environment do we want in classrooms: politically filtered or open and inclusive?

Only time — along with court decisions and public response — will tell whether this model will spread or face strong resistance.

Also Read : Tesla Ordered to Pay $243M After Fatal Autopilot Defect