State Supt. Walters touts Student Safety First initiatives

Walters Touts Student Safety First Initiatives

A new investigative unit and training programs bolster school security improvements

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (March 14th) – Today, Superintendent Ryan Walters highlighted the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s (OSDE) commitment to student safety through aggressive action against bad actors in the education system. Since taking office, Walters has overseen a robust crackdown on misconduct, ensuring that Oklahoma classrooms remain safe and focused on student success.

Under Walters’ leadership, OSDE has undertaken 94 investigations, leading to significant accountability measures, including:

• 35 voluntary teacher certification surrenders
• 10 teacher certification revocations
• 6 denials of new teaching certificates
• 46 suspended certificates

Additionally, OSDE has closed 87 percent of over 3,000 Awareity report complaints, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing concerns swiftly and effectively.

“We are sending a clear message: Oklahoma will not tolerate misconduct in our schools,” said Superintendent Walters. “Our proactive approach ensures that classrooms are safe environments where students can learn and thrive.” 

OSDE is also strengthening school safety through partnerships with organizations like the Brendon McLarty Foundation and Public Consulting Group. Since 2024, the Office of School Safety and Security has conducted over 300 hours of training, covering:

• Threat Assessments
• Run, Hide, Fight
• De-escalation
• Human Trafficking and Drug Awareness

These initiatives equip schools with critical tools to protect students and maintain a safe learning environment.

The OSDE has also implemented new investigative units and enhanced training programs to equip schools with the tools needed to prevent and respond to threats, further solidifying Oklahoma’s leadership in student safety.