Oklahoma State Board Advances Without Superintendent Walters

Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters was notably absent from a special Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting, the first since allegations surfaced of inappropriate content being shown on a television in his office. Despite his absence, the board proceeded with its agenda, unanimously hiring attorney Ryan Leonard as new board counsel to replace Chad Kutmas, who withdrew amid conflicts, and initiating the search for a new board secretary. The meeting, held in a state Senate conference room rather than the usual Education Department location, underscored ongoing tensions between Walters and several board members appointed by Governor Kevin Stitt. Walters canceled the regular board meeting the previous month without explanation, further straining relations. Board members expressed surprise at the cancellation but were not shocked by Walters’ absence at the special meeting, noting that it was the first potential face-to-face interaction since the controversy arose. Walters’ spokesperson stated that he remains focused on major educational issues and welcomed the new attorney but did not comment on his absence.