By John Dobberstein, Editor
State Supt. of Public Instruction Ryan Walters issued new “instructional support guidelines” Wednesday for Oklahoma teachers that includes providing a copy of the Bible, U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence and the Ten Commandments for all classrooms.
The guidelines also include historical context, literary significance and the artistic and musical influence of the Bible. Walters said the Bible is “indispensable in understanding the development of Western civilization and American history.
To ensure our students are equipped to understand and contextualize our nation, its culture, and its founding, every student in Oklahoma will be taught the Bible in its historical, cultural, and literary context,” a statement from Walters said. As we implement these standards, our schools will maintain open communication with parents to make sure they are fully informed and full partners in their kids’ education.”
Although some are skeptical of Walters’ ability to legally require these steps, Walters said he isn’t bluffing. “Some Oklahoma educators have indicated they won’t follow the law and Oklahoma standards, so let me be clear: they will comply, and I will use every means to make sure of it,” he said. Walters did not lay out what means he planned to use.
The new directives are providing Oklahoma school districts more potential decisions to mull over and logistics to work out to meet the request.
In a letter to Broken Arrow Public Schools parents Wednesday, the district noted the directives received from Walters requiring schools to incorporate the Bible as instructional support and Wednesday’s new orders.
“We have reviewed all information received on this topic, met with our internal instructional experts, and can confirm that Broken Arrow Public Schools is already compliant with the academic standards approved by the Oklahoma State Legislature,” BAPS said.
“For the 2024-25 school year, we will continue to use our current curriculum and approved resources, which are aligned with the Oklahoma Academic Standards.”
The district said Board Policy 3020 on Religion in School “clearly” outlines the role of religion in curriculum and instruction.
“According to this existing policy, it is already permissible to teach objectively and accurately about the role of the Bible in the history of the United States and other countries, in alignment with the Oklahoma Academic Standards,” the letter said.
“The district will have to find funds to purchase the mandatory instructional supports outlined in the most recent guidance, but no curriculum or instructional changes are necessary at this time. Additional information will be provided should the situation change in the weeks to come. The district will continue to comply with the Oklahoma Academic Standards while also fostering a safe, respectful learning environment for all students and all staff members.”
BAPS spokeswoman Tara Thompson said the district may be able to secure free pocketbook copies of the Constitutional documents, but for the Bible and Ten Commandments it may cost “several thousand dollars” to equip the district’s 1,400 classrooms.
Union Public Schools provided a similar statement that the district is compliant with the academic standards approved by the Oklahoma legislature. “We are studying the new guidelines and have a number of questions. Union will always be respectful of the religious beliefs of our students and staff members.”
Walters said Wednesday the guidelines aim to provide a “balanced, objective approach that respects diverse beliefs and fosters critical thinking. A holistic approach ensures that students do not merely see the Bible as a religious text but as a significant historical and cultural artifact that has influenced a wide array of human endeavors.
“By not promoting any religious beliefs, these new guidelines ensure that the curriculum remains inclusive and respectful of all backgrounds and beliefs. The focus remains firmly on the educational and secular benefits of literacy and background knowledge rather than religious indoctrination.”
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