A new teacher screening test in Oklahoma is drawing national attention — and sparking sharp debate — for its goal
A new teacher screening test in Oklahoma is drawing national attention — and sparking sharp debate — for its goal of blocking what state leaders call “woke indoctrinators” from entering the classroom.
The test, created by conservative media group Prager University, is aimed specifically at out-of-state teachers applying to work in Oklahoma from California and New York. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters says the test is designed to ensure incoming educators align with what he describes as Oklahoma’s “America-first” values.
“We’re not bringing in woke indoctrinators into the classroom,” Walters said this week.
The 50-question exam will cover U.S. history, government, and cultural issues, including religion and gender identity. It must be passed with a perfect score before teachers from these states can be hired. Although the test has not been fully released, officials shared five sample questions that hint at the content and tone.
One asks applicants to name the first three words of the U.S. Constitution. Another focuses on religious freedom and how it protects citizens from government control. A third asks about the structure of Congress.
