Oklahoma Superintendent Mandates Bible in School Curriculum, Igniting Controversy

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In a move that has generated significant controversy, Oklahoma’s superintendent of schools, Ryan Walters, announced a statewide directive requiring the incorporation of the Bible into the curriculum for grades 5 through 12. Walters emphasized the Bible’s importance as a historical document and mandated immediate compliance from all school districts.

“Adherence to this mandate is compulsory,” Walters stated in his letter, adding that further instructions for monitoring and reporting on the implementation for the 2024/25 school year will be provided. Walters’ announcement was made during the monthly state board of education meeting, where a stack of five books, including three versions of the Bible, were prominently displayed.

The directive has faced backlash from Democratic lawmakers and organizations advocating for the separation of church and state. Critics argue that Walters’ order infringes on constitutional principles and distracts from more pressing educational issues.

Background and Legal Justification

Walters cited Title 70 of Oklahoma Statutes, which governs state education, to justify his directive. He claimed that the inclusion of the Bible aligns with state educational standards approved in 2019 and noted that Oklahoma law permits the use of Bibles in classrooms.

“Oklahoma law already explicitly allows Bibles in the classroom and enables teachers to use them in instruction,” the state’s attorney general’s office confirmed in a statement.

Walters emphasized the Bible’s historical significance, describing it as “one of the most historically significant books and a cornerstone of Western civilization.” He stated that the Bible and the Ten Commandments would be referenced for their influence on the nation’s founders and constitutional principles.

Reactions and Criticisms

The announcement has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. The Oklahoma chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-OK) strongly opposed the mandate, with Executive Director Adam Soltani arguing that it violates the Constitution’s establishment clause.

“We adamantly oppose any requirements that religion be forcefully taught or required as a part of lesson plans in public schools,” Soltani said. “Religious freedom allows for the academic instruction of religion in subjects such as geography, social studies, and history. To require religious scripture to be incorporated into lessons is a clear violation of the Constitution.”

State Rep. Mickey Dollens, a Democrat from Oklahoma City, criticized Walters for focusing on religious directives instead of addressing Oklahoma’s low national ranking in education.

“Requiring a Bible in every classroom does not improve Oklahoma’s ranking in 49th in education,” Dollens said. “Ryan Walters should focus on educating students, not evangelizing them.”

Legislative Response

Tulsa Representatives Melissa Provenzano and John Waldron, both Democrats serving on an education committee, advised school districts to carefully review state laws regarding religious instruction before implementing Walters’ directive.

“Following this new directive from the State Superintendent of Education, we advise school districts to carefully review and follow existing state law,” Provenzano said. She referenced the outcome of State Question 790, which indicated that Oklahomans oppose using public funds for religious purposes.

Rachel Laser, president and CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, condemned Walters’ order as “textbook Christian Nationalism.”

Conclusion

Walters’ mandate to incorporate the Bible into Oklahoma’s school curriculum has sparked a heated debate over the separation of church and state and the priorities of the state’s educational system. As school districts navigate this new directive, the controversy is likely to continue, highlighting the ongoing tension between religious inclusion and constitutional adherence in public education.

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