State Declares New Controversial Education Reform
The Oklahoma Department of Education has announced plans to require public schools in the state to include Bibles in every classroom and teach about its historical significance, sparking opposition from supporters of the separation of church and state.
Oklahoma State Superintendent of Instruction Ryan Walters stated on Thursday that the decision aligns with the state’s academic standards. Walters emphasized the Bible’s role in understanding the history of the United States, Western civilization, and the foundation of the country’s legal system during the State Board of Education Regular Meeting. He described the Bible as “one of the most foundational documents used for the Constitution and the birth of our country” and highlighted its references in significant historical contexts, such as the Federalist Papers, the Constitutional Convention, and Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches.
Walters stressed the importance of students understanding the Bible’s historical context, announcing that his agency would issue a memo requiring every teacher and classroom in Oklahoma to have a Bible and incorporate its teachings to ensure a comprehensive historical education.
He repeatedly referenced Title 70 of the Oklahoma State Statutes, asserting that the state has the authority to mandate Bible teachings in schools. The statute grants school districts the power to determine instruction, curriculum, and instructional materials, subject to applicable laws.
This directive follows a recent ruling by the Oklahoma Supreme Court declaring a state-funded Catholic charter school unconstitutional. In response, Walters contended that the Constitution does not explicitly mention the separation of church and state and argued for the necessity of teaching about the Bible in schools.
Americans United for Separation of Church and State President and CEO Rachel Laser criticized Walters’ initiative, stating, “Public schools are not Sunday schools.” She accused Walters of being unfit for office and of attempting to indoctrinate students with religious beliefs through his mandate. Laser described the move as “textbook Christian Nationalism” and vowed that Americans United would act to protect Oklahoma public school students and their families from violations of religious freedom.
The USA was founded on the principles of the Bible , those that fight this are nothing less than socialist trying to destroy the country!
Thrilled! The rest of the country should follow suit. The Bible is an historical account of human kind. Also known as The Truth. States should also let parents have school choice, like Florida does.