Former Teacher Sues Oklahoma Officials Over Revoked License

UPDATE: Former Norman High School teacher Summer Boismier is taking urgent legal action against the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) and Superintendent Ryan Walters following the controversial revocation of her teaching license. The lawsuit, filed on October 31, 2024, in Oklahoma County, claims that Boismier’s constitutional rights were violated due to retaliation against her for advocating against a statewide book ban.

Boismier’s attorney, Iris Halpern, stated, “We are arguing that they personally violated the Constitution and certain laws, which will follow them even beyond their current positions.” This lawsuit is pivotal not only for Boismier but also for teachers and students across Oklahoma, as it addresses the climate of fear within educational institutions.

In the lawsuit, Boismier alleges that her teaching license was revoked as a direct result of her criticism of HB 1775, a law prohibiting discussions on specific topics related to race and gender in schools. She contends that her actions, including sharing a QR code that linked to a public library’s resources, were misconstrued as violations of OSDE’s regulations on explicit material.

“They claimed it was inappropriate, but the QR code simply directed to a library card application, granting access to a digital collection,” Halpern emphasized. Boismier was placed on administrative leave by Norman Public Schools in 2022 and subsequently resigned, only to face a license revocation that now hinders her ability to work in education.

“I have submitted over 300 job applications without a single offer due to the revocation of my teaching certificate,” Boismier expressed, highlighting the personal and professional impact of this decision.

The OSDE has responded to the lawsuit, clarifying that it pertains to prior administration actions. OSDE Press Secretary Bailey Woolsey stated, “It is understood that Ms. Boismier and her counsel are aware of the change in administration and are proceeding accordingly.” The current Board members and Superintendent Fields are not defendants in this case.

This lawsuit is expected to unfold over the next year, with the defendants required to submit their response soon. The implications of this case could resonate widely, as it challenges the intersection of education, free speech, and governmental authority in Oklahoma.

As this situation develops, it underscores the urgent need for clarity and fairness in educational policies, impacting not just Boismier but potentially setting a precedent for numerous educators facing similar challenges. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving legal battle that could reshape the educational landscape in Oklahoma.