Oklahoma to Require ‘America First’ Ideology Test for Teachers from California and New York

Oklahoma has announced a new and controversial certification requirement for teachers relocating from California and New York. State Superintendent Ryan Walters confirmed that applicants from these states must pass a 50-question “America First” exam, developed in collaboration with conservative media organization PragerU, before they can be certified to teach in Oklahoma.

The exam will cover U.S. history, civics, and questions on religious freedom, biological differences between males and females, and gender ideology. Walters argued that the new requirement is designed to protect Oklahoma classrooms from what he described as “radical leftist ideology” and ensure that educators entering the state support its conservative values.

Sample questions released by the state include: “What are the first three words of the U.S. Constitution?” “Why is freedom of religion important to America’s identity?” and “Why do some states have more representatives than others?”

The announcement has sparked immediate backlash from educators and unions. Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, condemned the measure as a “MAGA loyalty test” that will likely discourage teachers from moving to Oklahoma at a time when the state is already struggling with severe teacher shortages. Education experts have also raised concerns, saying the policy represents a new level of influence for PragerU, shifting from providing optional educational content to controlling access to teaching positions.

Despite criticism, Walters defended the plan, highlighting that Oklahoma is offering bonuses of up to $50,000 to attract teachers. He also suggested that the test could eventually expand to applicants from other states.

Supporters argue that the reforms will restore what they call “honest, pro-America education.” Opponents warn the move could worsen teacher shortages and deepen political divisions in Oklahoma classrooms.