OKLAHOMA CITY — State Superintendent Ryan Walters directed Oklahoma schools to hold a moment of silence on Tuesday to honor slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Walters expects schools to pause at noon for Kirk, who was fatally shot last week during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. However, not every district supports the plan, with one superintendent calling it “unnecessary” and disruptive.
Districts including Oklahoma City Public Schools, Norman Public Schools, Mustang Public Schools, Edmond Public Schools, Deer Creek School District, and others pointed out they already observe a daily moment of silence. In statements to KOCO 5, several districts emphasized they follow the state law requiring a moment of silence, which allows students and staff to reflect, pray, meditate, or participate in any silent activity of their choice.
Walters wrote in a letter to families on Monday that Kirk inspired a generation to speak freely, think critically, and debate openly.
“This moment is about coming together to honor a man who believed in empowering the next generation with courage and conviction,” Walters wrote. “Thank you for standing with us.”
Although Walters directed Oklahoma schools to hold a moment of silence, he is also investigating teachers who criticized Kirk. The Oklahoma State Department of Education has launched an investigation into a Sand Springs teacher for social media comments made about Kirk’s killing.