OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – Oklahoma’s controversial State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Ryan Walters, has announced his resignation, effective at the end of the current academic year. The decision comes amidst a storm of criticism surrounding his administration, most notably his directive to mandate the display of Bibles in every classroom across the state’s public school system.

Walters, a figure who consistently garnered national headlines for his conservative education policies, stated in a press conference that his resignation was for “personal reasons” and an opportunity to “pursue new avenues of public service.” However, his tenure has been marked by significant clashes with educators, parents, and civil liberties groups, primarily over issues of curriculum, LGBTQ+ rights, and the separation of church and state.

His most recent and polarizing initiative involved a policy requiring public schools to prominently display Bibles in classrooms, a move that drew immediate legal challenges from organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Americans United for Separation of Church and State. Critics argued that the policy violated the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, which prohibits the government from establishing a religion. Supporters, including many conservative lawmakers and religious groups, hailed it as a step towards restoring “moral values” in education.

“Superintendent Walters’ policies consistently demonstrated a disregard for the constitutional rights of all students, particularly those from diverse backgrounds and beliefs,” said Sarah Johnson, a spokesperson for a local teachers’ union. “His departure, while perhaps for personal reasons, offers an opportunity for the state to refocus on inclusive, quality education for every child.”

Conversely, some conservative groups expressed disappointment. “Ryan Walters fought tirelessly to bring common sense and traditional values back into our schools,” stated a representative from a prominent faith-based advocacy group. “His efforts to restore the Bible’s presence in classrooms were commendable, and he will be missed by many who shared his vision.”

The legal battles over the Bible mandate are expected to continue even after Walters’ departure, as the policy’s future will likely depend on the stance of his successor and the ongoing court proceedings. Oklahoma’s Governor has yet to announce a timeline for selecting a new State Superintendent or whether an interim appointment will be made. Walters’ resignation is expected to ignite a fierce debate over the direction of education policy in the deeply red state.