Oklahoma public schools are preparing to implement a controversial new requirement for incoming teachers from California and New York. Beginning later this year, all applicants will need to pass a certification exam that demonstrates their alignment with the state’s conservative values before being allowed to teach. The exam will apply to all subjects and grade levels, requiring educators to affirm “the biological differences between males and females” and agree with Oklahoma’s official history standards, which include the disputed claim that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from Donald Trump.

The test will be created and overseen by PragerU, a conservative nonprofit known for producing online videos and educational content. State superintendent Ryan Walters defended the measure as necessary to protect students from what he calls “radical leftist ideology” promoted in states like California and New York. Walters has branded the exam the “America First certification” and argued it will ensure teachers reflect Oklahoma’s cultural values.

Sample questions released by the state include identifying the first three words of the U.S. Constitution, explaining why freedom of religion is central to American identity, and describing the role of God in the nation’s founding. Walters said the full 50-question test would be finalized and distributed soon, insisting it would uphold “Oklahoma standards” and safeguard classrooms.

The plan has sparked sharp criticism from education groups and political opponents. The American Federation of Teachers condemned it as an ideological “MAGA loyalty test” that risks worsening Oklahoma’s already severe teacher shortage. Union president Randi Weingarten argued that the state should focus on raising salaries, reducing class sizes, and improving resources instead of imposing what she called a “purity test” for educators.

Supporters, however, praised the move as a way to restore “honest, pro-America education” and prevent classrooms from being politicized by progressive agendas. Walters claims the state has already seen interest from teachers who feel disillusioned in other states and that Oklahoma is prepared to offer bonuses of up to $50,000 to attract educators willing to relocate.

For now, the “America First certification” places Oklahoma squarely at the center of a national fight over education and ideology. Supporters view it as a bold stand for traditional values, while critics warn it risks alienating teachers, politicizing classrooms, and undermining public schools at a time when staffing shortages are already a serious challenge.