Oklahoma AG Files to Dismiss Ben Gamla Lawsuit Claims

Drummond seeks to dismiss all allegations against him in ongoing charter school dispute.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:29pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting depicting the symbols of justice and government in a state of fragmentation, conceptually representing the complex legal and political tensions surrounding charter schools in Oklahoma.The legal and political battle over charter school oversight in Oklahoma continues to intensify, with the state's top law enforcement official now seeking to remove himself from the fray.Drummond Today

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has filed a motion to dismiss all claims against him in an ongoing lawsuit between the Ben Gamla Jewish Charter School Foundation and the Oklahoma State Charter School Board. The lawsuit is part of an ongoing dispute within the state's Jewish community over the charter school's operations.

Why it matters

This case highlights the political tensions and legal battles surrounding charter school oversight and operations in Oklahoma, particularly when religious or ethnic communities are involved. The outcome could set precedents for how the state regulates and interacts with charter schools going forward.

The details

In his motion, Drummond is seeking to be removed as a defendant in the lawsuit, arguing that the claims against him are without merit. The Ben Gamla Foundation has accused Drummond and other state officials of improperly interfering with the charter school's operations. However, Drummond contends that he has not taken any official actions related to the school.

  • The lawsuit between the Ben Gamla Foundation and the Oklahoma Charter School Board was filed in 2025.
  • Drummond filed his motion to dismiss the claims against him on April 14, 2026.

The players

Gentner Drummond

The Attorney General of Oklahoma who filed the motion to dismiss the claims against him in the Ben Gamla lawsuit.

Ben Gamla Jewish Charter School Foundation

The organization operating the Ben Gamla Jewish Charter School in Oklahoma, which is involved in the ongoing lawsuit with the state charter school board.

Oklahoma State Charter School Board

The state government entity overseeing charter schools in Oklahoma, which is the defendant in the lawsuit filed by the Ben Gamla Foundation.

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What they’re saying

“We believe the claims against the Attorney General are without merit and we are confident the court will agree.”

— Drummond spokesperson

“This is yet another example of state officials overstepping their bounds and interfering with the operations of our school.”

— Ben Gamla Foundation representative

What’s next

The judge overseeing the case is expected to rule on Drummond's motion to dismiss in the next 30 days.

The takeaway

This legal battle underscores the complex and often contentious relationship between charter schools, especially those with religious or ethnic affiliations, and state education authorities in Oklahoma. The outcome could have broader implications for charter school oversight and autonomy in the state.