Oklahoma Teacher’s License Revoked for Encouraging Students to Access Banned Books from Brooklyn Library

The Oklahoma State Board of Education has decided to revoke the teaching license of former teacher Summer Boismier. Boismier gained national attention in 2022 for covering part of her classroom bookshelf with red tape labeled “Books the state didn’t want you to read.” Despite a judge advising against revoking her license, the board proceeded with the decision.

During her time as a high school English teacher, Boismier also displayed a QR code linked to the Brooklyn Public Library’s list of banned books in her classroom. She now works at the Brooklyn Public Library in New York City. Boismier’s attorney, Brady Henderson, stated that they will seek to appeal the board’s decision, emphasizing Boismier’s belief in providing students with access to information.

Boismier, a fan of fantasy novels, had intended to spark a conversation about book restrictions and a new law banning lessons on critical race theory in Oklahoma. However, she faced backlash, threats, and accusations of influencing students’ political beliefs. Following the controversy, Boismier resigned from her teaching position.

Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters, who was a candidate for the state’s top education office during Boismier’s tenure, had called for the revocation of her license, claiming she promoted banned and explicit material in the classroom. Walters accused Boismier of violating rules prohibiting discussions on race and gender topics, stating that she had broken the law.

Despite the allegations, Boismier maintains her innocence and defends her actions as an effort to promote open access to information for her students. The incident involving Boismier reflects a broader trend of teachers facing scrutiny in various states, including Iowa and Utah, where lawmakers are implementing book bans and restricting curriculum content related to race, gender, and sexuality.