Oklahoma Bible mandate: Ryan Walters threatens 'rogue' districts

The Oklahoman, By M. Scott Carter Murray Evans, on July 31, 2024

https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/education/2024/07/31/oklahoma-bible-in-schools-ryan-walters-threatens-rogue-districts/74599357007/


Oklahoma's State School Superintendent has stirred controversy again by mandating the teaching of the Bible in public school classrooms, threatening repercussions for districts that don't comply. Although legal scholars widely regard this move as unconstitutional, the Superintendent remains resolute, seemingly unbothered by potential legal challenges. Critics argue that his accusations against school districts for being "rogue" are baseless, pointing out that local control over curriculum is enshrined in Oklahoma law. Despite this, the Superintendent continues to push his agenda, possibly for political gain rather than genuine educational reform. This situation echoes past instances where political figures attempted to impose religious mandates, reminiscent of Alabama's Roy Moore and his failed efforts to install a Ten Commandments monument. The Superintendent's actions are viewed by some as a distraction from more pressing issues, particularly the poor state of Oklahoma's education system, which ranks among the lowest in the nation. Rather than addressing these deep-rooted problems, the focus has shifted to controversial religious initiatives, leaving the state's educational challenges unaddressed. Furthermore, the Superintendent's policies may be seen as part of a broader effort to suppress minority cultures, especially in areas bordering indigenous territories. This has sparked concerns about the imposition of a singular religious ideology at the expense of cultural diversity and educational quality. Critics fear that this move, under the guise of improving educational outcomes, is actually a politically motivated attempt to rally specific voter bases while ignoring the true needs of Oklahoma's students and educators.

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