Ryan Walters, a controversial former Oklahoma education superintendent known for pushing Bible teaching in public schools, has filed for divorce from his wife of nearly 15 years, Katie. The 40-year-old filed the petition in Oklahoma County District Court on May 8, citing 'a state of complete and irreconcilable incompatibility' that has made the continuation of their marriage impossible.
Divorce Filing Details
In the filing, Walters seeks an equitable split of marital assets and debts, as well as joint and equal custody of their four minor children. In a joint statement to The Oklahoman, the couple said they made the decision 'after thoughtful conversations' and remain committed to co-parenting their children. 'Our children are at the heart of everything, and we love them more than words can say,' they stated, requesting privacy as they transition to this new chapter.
Walters' Political Career
Walters gained national attention after being appointed Oklahoma's education secretary by Governor Kevin Stitt in late 2020 and later elected state superintendent in 2022. He advocated for mandating the 'God Bless the USA Bible' in classrooms, a version endorsed by former President Donald Trump. He also appointed Chaya Raichik, known for the 'Libs of TikTok' account, to the Oklahoma Library Media Advisory Committee despite her limited ties to the state.
Critics accused Walters of prioritizing a 'culture war' over educational outcomes, particularly after the death of transgender student Nex Benedict. Walters declared the state would 'never back down to a woke mob' and asserted there are only two genders. He faced an investigation in 2024 when two board members claimed he displayed images of nude women on his office TV, allegations he denied as politically motivated.
Walters resigned as schools chief late last year to lead an anti-union group. His name was floated as a potential candidate for governor or Senate, but neither campaign materialized.
