Ryan Walters Releases 'Discipline Reform Plan', Teachers Say They've Known Of The Rules Previously

Today State Superintendent Ryan Walters released a comprehensive discipline reform plan.

Walters has been pushing for increased discipline and teacher protections for months.

He says it's been in place, but also says schools need to get into compliance.

Teachers tell News 9 that they’ve known about these rules, but Walters says that he’s hearing teachers say they’re concerned about their safety.

This is the list of teachers' rights when it comes to discipline:

1. Teachers may refuse to teach a student who has been suspended for committing a violent act against them.
2. Teachers also have the right to search students, desks, lockers, and any school property along with the right to detain a student until a proper search is complete.

We know Walters spoke about his concerns in October's state board of education meeting…. Citing that if Oklahoma schools do not changeThey’ll be like California’s. 

Walters is focusing on holding districts accountable, “We found that hundreds of districts are not turning in policies for us to review. We will then review and ensure compliance,” said Walters.

Republican Representative Mark McBride says if any new rules were to be added ....they must go through an entire legislative process.

Walters says districts must submit their discipline policies to the department by December 10th… this year and every year to follow.