Walters begins advocating for conservative reforms, emphasizing school choice and parental rights.

Promotes the ban on critical race theory, sparking widespread debate about censorship and academic freedom.

Walters is accused of mismanaging nearly $2 million in pandemic relief funds, allegedly approving purchases of gaming consoles and Christmas trees instead of strictly educational items. This leads to a federal investigation and criticism from lawmakers for a lack of transparency and accountability

Walters’ administration fails to reapply for nearly $1 million in federal funding meant to help schools respond to emergencies, leading to criticism for jeopardizing school crisis response programs.

Walters attempts to remove books such as The Kite Runner and The Glass Castle from public school libraries, citing inappropriate content. This move triggers statewide backlash. Walters was sued by Edmond Public Schools and lost. 

The Oklahoma Supreme Court rules that Walters overstepped his authority by attempting to enforce restrictive library policies. The court affirms that local school boards, not the state, have control over library content.

Walters and the Oklahoma State Board of Education are accused of violating the Open Meeting Act by barring lawmakers from attending an executive session. The Attorney General’s office begins investigating these allegations.

Rob Miller, the Superintendent of Bixby Public Schools, files a defamation lawsuit against Walters after Walters publicly called him a "liar" and a "clown." Walters accused Miller of financial mismanagement without evidence.

The Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency (LOFT) begins investigating spending concerns within the Oklahoma State Department of Education under Walters, following allegations of improper disbursement of funds.

The Oklahoma Attorney General reprimands Walters for failing to distribute $50 million in school security funds, leaving over $128 million unspent, sparking concerns about school safety.