If you thought the only things students needed for school were textbooks, pencils, and maybe a packed lunch, think again! Hold onto your hats, because Oklahoma schools are about to change up the curriculum in a way that has everyone talking.
“The Bible is an indispensable historical and cultural touchstone,” says Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters
Yes, you read that right. The Bible and the Ten Commandments are now part of the mandatory curriculum for Oklahoma schools, starting from 5th grade all the way through 12th grade. This came straight from Ryan Walters, the Oklahoma state superintendent of public instruction. And oh boy, he means business!
In a memo obtained by KFOR-TV, Walters highlighted the significance of the Bible. Calling it “one of the most historically significant books,” he pointed out its substantial influence on the nation’s founders and constitutional principles. The tone was clear: this isn’t an optional add-on. No, sir. It’s a must-do-don’t-even-think-about-skipping kind of mandate. Immediate, strict compliance is expected, folks.
So, what does this mean for Oklahoma schools? According to Oklahoma state law, individual school districts typically have the authority to decide their curriculum and instructional materials. But now, with Walters putting his foot down, schools across the state are rolling out the holy texts.
Not everyone is thrilled. In fact, several groups are all but tearing their hair out. Interfaith Alliance, a group dedicated to protecting religious freedoms, was quick to criticize the mandate. They called it “blatant religious coercion” and insisted it has no place in public schools.
“True religious freedom means ensuring that no one religious group is allowed to impose their viewpoint on all Americans,” they argued. They weren’t alone, either. Rachel Laser, president and CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, echoed similar sentiments. She didn’t mince words, labeling the move as “textbook Christian Nationalism” and calling Walters out for abusing his public office power to impose his beliefs.
The controversy doesn’t stop at state borders. Earlier this month, Louisiana passed a similar law requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in every public school classroom, from kindergartens to universities. And trust me, they’re not baby posters. We’re talking poster-size displays in large, easily readable fonts.
So what’s next? With the dust far from settled, stakeholders from various walks of life are voicing their opinions more passionately than ever. One thing’s for sure: the conversation about the role of religion in public education is far from over.
