Oklahoma State Dept. of Education mandates the Bible be taught in public schools

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — The Oklahoma State Department of Education is mandating public school teachers use the Bible in classrooms.

The public school superintendents were sent a memo on Thursday announcing the new rule.

“The Bible is an indispensable historical and cultural touchstone,” said State Superintendent Ryan Walters. “Without basic knowledge of it, Oklahoma students are unable to properly contextualize the foundation of our nation which is why Oklahoma educational standards provide for its instruction. 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.”

Superintendent Walters says the directive is in alignment with curriculum rules approved in May 2019 and all districts must comply.

This is a developing story.