Oklahoma’s State Superintendent, Ryan Walters, has launched an investigation into Western Heights Public Schools over its recent hiring of a drag queen as principal of an elementary school. The drag queen in question, Dr. Shane Brent Murnan, had previously been charged with possession of child pornography in 2001 but had the charges dismissed in 2002.
The decision to hire Murnan sparked outrage among parents who were concerned about the message the district was sending by appointing a drag queen as a school leader. Walters stated that the investigation would also look into Murnan’s teaching certificate, as well as the use of taxpayer funds to hire a drag queen as staff. He denounced the use of public funds to support someone with a controversial personal life, especially when it involves potential risks to children.
Murnan’s arrest in 2001 took place while he was a fifth-grade teacher at Will Rodgers Elementary School in Oklahoma. A judge agreed with police that the images found on his devices were child pornography. However, a different judge later dismissed the charges, arguing that the age of the children in the images could not be determined. Murnan’s record was also expunged after he completed his probation for a drug charge in 2003.
If woke school boards refuse to follow the law and protect our kids, I will. pic.twitter.com/Hz4s60kgmg
— Superintendent Ryan Walters (@RyanWaltersSupt) September 26, 2023
In addition to his role as a principal, Murnan also works at a gay bar called The Boom in Oklahoma City, which hosts Sunday gospel brunch and a “farcical church service.” He even won beauty pageants, including Miss Gay Oklahoma America and Miss Gay Oklahoma USofA in 2017. These activities raise concern about his influence and potential access to children, especially considering his previous arrest on child pornography charges.
The district defended its decision to hire Murnan, stating that they followed standard hiring procedures and conducted a background check. However, this response fails to address the concerns raised by parents and Oklahoma State Superintendent Walters. It is not just about following proper procedures, but also making responsible and ethical decisions when it comes to who we entrust to lead and educate our children.
Ultimately, the issue at hand is not about discriminating against someone based on their sexual orientation or personal life choices. It is about protecting children from potential dangers and sending a clear message that grooming kids and pedophilia will not be tolerated in a school setting or any other environment involving children. The fact that Murnan openly performs as a drag queen, works at a gay bar, and has a history of child pornography charges raises red flags and warrants further investigation.
If woke school boards refuse to follow the law and protect our kids, I will. pic.twitter.com/Hz4s60kgmg
— Superintendent Ryan Walters (@RyanWaltersSupt) September 26, 2023
In conclusion, the actions of Western Heights Public Schools in hiring Murnan as a principal are concerning and warrant a thorough investigation. Protecting children and promoting a safe and healthy learning environment should be the top priority of any school district. It is crucial to send a message that any behavior or actions that can potentially harm children will not be tolerated, regardless of one’s personal life choices.