Several major Oklahoma school districts reject superintendent’s directive to incorporate Bible education

Months before the commencement of classes in Oklahoma, the state schools superintendent has issued guidance on the inclusion of Bible instruction in public schools.

In a recent directive, State Superintendent Ryan Walters mandated the integration of the Bible as an instructional tool for grades five through 12, stirring controversy among civil rights groups and some Democratic legislators. Walters defends the mandate by asserting that the Bible is fundamental to education and a cornerstone of Western civilization.

Walters’ guidelines explain how teachers should integrate the Bible into their lesson plans based on the students’ grade levels.

“Immediate and full implementation of these guidelines for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year is mandatory,” stated Walters in a memo directed at district superintendents. The memo also emphasizes the provision of essential documents like the Bible, the United States Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Ten Commandments in every classroom, as per the holistic education requirements in Oklahoma.

Despite the directive, a growing number of large districts, at least eight, have indicated that they will not modify their curriculum.

The Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office affirms that state law permits the teaching of the Bible in classrooms, leaving its integration as a decision for each district. Many districts oppose the directive, citing the principle of local control as the basis for their curriculum decisions.

Additionally, the Center for Education Law declared Walters’ directive invalid under state law. The legal firm previously represented Edmond Public Schools in a successful lawsuit against Walters and the Oklahoma State Board of Education.

What about other states?In Louisiana, the display of the Ten Commandments in schools is mandated by law.

‘No changes in our current educational materials’

Piedmont Public Schools affirmed in a letter to parents that they align with the existing set of Oklahoma State Academic Standards, recognizing the influence of various religions on world history and culture.

While religious impact is discussed within historical and cultural contexts, the school emphasizes that specific religious doctrines or practices are not part of the current academic standards.

Jenks Public Schools, part of suburban Tulsa, also confirmed they will maintain their current educational resources and curriculum.

Jenks Public Schools reiterated their commitment to the current curriculum approved by the Oklahoma State Legislature, aligned with the state’s academic standards.

Other major districts have indicated their intention to adhere to their approved curriculum rather than implementing the directive, including Norman Public Schools, Moore Public Schools, Stillwater Public Schools, Bixby Public Schools, Yukon Public Schools, and the Deer Creek School District.

Oklahoma House Democrats urged more districts to join the eight that will not follow Walters’ directive.

“The state superintendent seems unwavering in pushing mandates that he lacks the authority to enforce,” said Rep. Cyndi Munson, the House minority leader from Oklahoma City, criticizing Walters’ actions as an attack on religious freedom.

What does Ryan Walters’ guidance on Bible teaching include?

The five-page document outlining the guidance offers teachers directions on incorporating the Bible emphasizing its historical, literary, and secular benefits, in compliance with legal standards and precedents.

The document presents strategies for implementation, including textual analysis, comparative studies, historical documents, and speeches meant to incorporate the Bible into classroom instruction.

Grade-specific guidelines for students in grades five through 12 are provided, alongside a section addressing legal considerations. The directives ensure neutral and objective instruction, recognizing the Bible’s influence while respecting religious diversity among students.

• Instruction must remain objective, focusing only on the historical and literary aspects of the Bible.
• Religious diversity among students should be acknowledged, incorporating perspectives from various traditions while adhering to appropriate grade levels.
• Open communication with parents about curriculum content emphasizing historical and literary aspects is essential.
• The Bible should be utilized for its historical, literary, and secular value, not for religious purposes.

The funding for the Bibles required in every classroom and the specific version to be used remain unspecified by Walters.

Walters asserts commitment to enforcing compliance

Asserting his authority under Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statutes, governing state education, Walters emphasized school districts’ responsibility to determine instruction, curriculum, and instructional materials.

The Center for Education Law contends that Walters did not follow the state’s Administrative Procedures Act (APA) in issuing the directive. The group cites a unanimous state Supreme Court ruling that emphasizes limitations on the board’s power without specific legislative delegation.

In response to districts opposing the directive, Walters issued a warning, indicating his readiness to enforce compliance by all available means.

Walters’ order aligns with efforts in conservative-led states to introduce religious teachings into public school systems.

A recent law enacted in Louisiana mandates the display of the Ten Commandments in every public classroom, reflecting similar initiatives proposed in Texas and other states to incorporate Biblical teachings.