Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters announced on Thursday that all public schools within his jurisdiction should integrate the Bible and Ten Commandments into their curriculum.
Walters emphasized the historical significance of the Bible and its role in Western civilization, alongside the ethical and historical impact of the Ten Commandments.
He stated that these teachings should be included in studies of history, civilization, ethics, comparative religion, and their influence on the nation’s founders and constitutional principles.
According to a memorandum sent to schools, Walters described this directive as essential for students to understand core values and the historical context of the United States.
The memo also indicated that more details on implementation would be provided for the upcoming 2024-25 school year, with support from the Education Department in supplying relevant materials.
Critics swiftly denounced Walters’ directive, viewing it as a violation of the separation of church and state.
Rachel Laser, president of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, criticized the move as an attempt to impose religious education in public schools, stating that public schools should not function as religious institutions.
This directive follows recent controversial actions in other states, such as Louisiana’s requirement for posters of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms, which has sparked legal challenges from civil liberties groups.
Additionally, in Oklahoma, the state’s Supreme Court recently ruled against the nation’s first religious charter school, a decision that drew criticism from Superintendent Walters.
