Former Teacher Sues OSDE, Ryan Walters Over Revoked License

URGENT UPDATE: Former Norman High School teacher Summer Boismier has filed a lawsuit against the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE), its Superintendent Ryan Walters, and five former Board of Education members over the revocation of her teaching license. The lawsuit was officially filed on October 31, 2024, in Oklahoma County, igniting a firestorm of controversy surrounding educational rights and censorship.

Boismier’s legal team argues that her license was revoked as an act of retaliation for her vocal criticism of a statewide book ban, specifically HB 1775, which restricts discussions on race and gender in schools. Her attorney, Iris Halpern, stated, “We are arguing that they personally violated the Constitution and certain laws, and that will travel with them even if they’re not in that position.”

In a heartfelt message to News 4, Boismier expressed her motivations for the lawsuit: “I think I’m looking for maybe freedom for Oklahoma teachers and students who’ve been teaching and most importantly, learning from places of fear the last few years.” This lawsuit comes as teachers across Oklahoma voice concerns over educational freedom amid increasing censorship.

The revocation stems from Boismier’s decision to share a QR code leading to a public library’s digital collection, which Walters claimed violated rules regarding explicit material. Halpern clarified, “It didn’t even go specifically to any banned books; it was a URL where you can apply for a library card and have access to their whole entire digital collection.” Despite this explanation, Boismier was placed on administrative leave in 2022 before resigning from her position.

Since the revocation in 2024, Boismier has struggled to find work, stating, “I can’t work in the field that I’ve previously worked in because I don’t have a valid teaching certificate. I have filled out over 300 job applications and have zero offers.” This highlights the profound personal and professional impact the situation has had on her life.

In response to the lawsuit, OSDE issued a statement confirming that the lawsuit is directed toward the previous administration. “It is understood that Ms. Boismier and her counsel are aware of the change in administration and are proceeding accordingly,” said Bailey Woolsey, OSDE Press Secretary.

The defendants now have a limited time to respond to the lawsuit, and Halpern anticipates that the litigation could extend for at least a year. Boismier’s case is set against the backdrop of a national conversation about educational rights, censorship, and the freedom to teach—a topic that has captured the attention of educators and advocates across the nation.

As this situation develops, it raises pressing questions about the future of education in Oklahoma and the rights of teachers to express their views without fear of retaliation. This case is one to watch as it unfolds, potentially setting important precedents for educational policy and teachers’ rights in the state.