Several Oklahoma districts are resisting the Oklahoma State Superintendent’s mandate that the Bible be taught in public schools. State Superintendent Ryan Walters issued a memo with the new directive, stating, “The Bible is one of the most historically significant books and a cornerstone of Western civilization, along with the Ten Commandments. 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.” Walters stated he was making the directive to communicate the importance the Bible played in the historical founding of the United States, as well as other events in Western Civilization that would eventually lead to its founding.

The directive, however, has not set well with a number of districts in the state, including Norman Public Schools, which issued a memo refusing to comply with the new directive. Norman Public Schools Superintendent Nick Migliorino wrote the memo, saying, “I’m just going to cut to the chase on that. Norman Public Schools is not going to have Bibles in our classrooms, and we are not going to require our teachers to teach from the Bible. The standards are clear and our curriculum is very clear. And we’re not going to deviate from that. I don’t know. I’m just going to be direct on that one.” Moore Public Schools Superintendent, Robert Romines, also issued a statement saying that he believed the state’s current standards are already sufficient. He noted that students could bring their own religious materials if desired. “However, it is important to clarify that while students learn about religion’s role in historical and cultural contexts, teaching any specific religious doctrine or practice is not a part of the current standards. Our goal is to continue providing a respectful environment that acknowledges various perspectives while adhering to the set and approved Oklahoma educational standards.” Stillwater Public Schools spokesman Barry Fuxa said, “we are waiting for that legal matter to be resolved. At this time, we have no plans to place Bibles in classrooms or incorporate Bible lessons into any curriculum.”

Walters told The Christian Post that directives for the mandate will be released to school in the next few weeks. Many districts have stated they are awaiting those directives before deciding whether or not they will comply with the mandate. Walters, however, made it clear that the directive is non-negotiable. “We made clear with the directive; this is not an ask.” It is unclear what type of enforcement Walters plans to use should districts choose not to comply.