Some Oklahoma schools defy state directive, refuse to treat Bible as historical text

Several Oklahoma public school districts claim they will defy a recent directive from State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters to incorporate the Bible as a historical text in the classroom.

The controversy stems from a June memo sent by Walters, in which he directs public schools across Oklahoma to begin using the Bible as source material in the classroom in an effort to expand students’ cultural literacy.

However, superintendents from multiple districts, including Bixby, Norman, Yukon and Deer Creek, have spoken out against the directive, refusing to include the Bible even in relevant classroom discussions.

In his directive to Oklahoma schools, Walters points to the Bible’s influence on America’s founding and other significant historical contexts as the key reasoning behind its necessary inclusion in public education.

“The Bible is one of the most historically significant books and a cornerstone of Western civilization, along with the Ten Commandments,” Walters states in the memo.

“They will be referenced as an appropriate study of history, civilization, ethics, comparative religion, or the like, as well as for their substantial influence on our nation’s founders and the foundational principles of our Constitution. This is not merely an educational directive but a crucial step in ensuring our students grasp the core values and historical context of our country.” 

Some experts on the Bible and its relevance to the modern world are supportive of Walters’ stance.  

“It is beyond dispute that the Bible has had more impact on the world than any other book,” David Closson, the director of the Center for Biblical Worldview at Family Research Council, shared with The Lion. “In terms of western civilization, the Bible has impacted everything from literature to human rights to abolitionism to the push for religious freedom. In my view, everyone should have a working knowledge of the Bible.” 

Closson pointed out that even famous atheists such as Richard Dawkins have conceded that knowledge of the basic principles of the Bible is a requirement for cultural literacy. 

“It’s difficult to imagine someone receiving a well-rounded education without being exposed to the Christian scriptures and appreciating the influence that this book has had,” Closson continued. “As a Baptist, I am allergic to religious instruction in public schools, but as a matter of history, I think that it makes abundant sense for students to have a working knowledge of scripture.”