The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) has announced a new initiative requiring incoming teachers to pass an “America First” assessment to obtain a teaching license in the state. This move is part of a collaboration with PragerU, a pro-Trump educational nonprofit, aimed at aligning educators with Oklahoma’s educational values. The assessment will focus on three key areas: knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, understanding of American exceptionalism, and comprehension of fundamental biological differences between boys and girls.

The initiative targets teachers relocating from states with progressive education policies, such as California and New York, according to OSDE. Superintendent Ryan Walters emphasized that Oklahoma schools will not accommodate what he describes as “woke agendas” prevalent in other states. Walters stated that educators must respect America’s foundational principles and possess a solid understanding of basic biology to teach in Oklahoma. The goal is to foster a generation of students who take pride in the nation’s history and values.

PragerU CEO Marissa Streit expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the assessment’s role in preventing what she termed “extreme leftist ideologues” from influencing children. The test is designed to ensure that teachers promote America’s greatness and future potential. Although the exact content of the assessment is still being finalized, it is expected to be implemented shortly after completion.

This new requirement is part of a broader effort by OSDE under Walters’ leadership to reinforce pro-America education standards. Recent reforms include updated social studies standards that emphasize civics and constitutional studies, as well as measures to address antisemitism and improve student welfare by reallocating administrative funds to cover student lunches.

While some Oklahoma teachers’ unions have been contacted for their views on this development, they have refrained from commenting due to a lack of detailed information about the assessment. The initiative underscores OSDE’s commitment to an education system rooted in patriotism and core American values.