Less than a month before Oklahoma schools reopen, State Superintendent Ryan Walters issued guidance for incorporating his recent mandate requiring the Bible to be taught in every classroom for grades five through twelve. While this directive has sparked controversy and led some districts to refuse compliance, Walters argues that the Bible is foundational for education and an essential aspect of Western civilization.
The guidelines detail how teachers should include the Bible in lesson plans, emphasizing its historical, literary, and secular significance without promoting religious beliefs. The directive requires providing a physical copy of the Bible, along with other historical documents, in every classroom. However, several districts have indicated they will not alter their curriculum and will continue to follow the standards approved by the state legislature.
The Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office has stated that teaching the Bible is a district-by-district decision, with several large districts opting not to implement Walters’ mandate based on the principle of local control. The Center for Education Law has also challenged the validity of the directive, citing it as invalid under state law.
Walters has threatened non-compliant districts with enforcement of his directive and insists that they must adhere to the new guidelines. This move by Oklahoma is part of a broader trend among conservative-led states to introduce religious teachings into public school curriculum, with similar initiatives seen in Louisiana and Texas. Despite pushback and legal challenges, Walters remains committed to his mandate, asserting his authority under state education law.
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