State Supt. Walters providing bibles, copies of Ten Commandments to Oklahoma teachers

OKLAHOMA — State Superintendent Ryan Walters announced he will be providing a physical copy of the Bible and Ten Commandments as resources in every classroom.

This announcement follows Walters' plan for new social studies standards , incorporating the Bible as an instructional resource.

Walters released the following Instructional Support Guidelines for Oklahoma Teachers including historical context, literary significance and the artistic and musical influence of the Bible.

Historical Context

• Influence on Western Civilization: The Bible has been a key cornerstone in the development of Western thought, influencing legal systems, ethical frameworks, and cultural norms. Teachers must focus on how biblical principles have shaped the foundational aspects of Western societies, such as the concepts of justice, human rights, and the rule of law.
• Impact on American History: From the early European settlers to the founding fathers, biblical references have been prevalent in American historical documents and speeches. Teachers must highlight key historical moments where the Bible played a role, such as the Mayflower Compact, the Declaration of Independence, and the speeches of leaders like Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King, Jr.

Literary Significance

• Canonical Literature: The Bible is a primary source of allusions, themes, and archetypes in Western literature. Teachers must explore its influence on classic and contemporary works, helping students understand references and themes in literature, poetry, and even modern media.
• Literary Techniques: The Bible uses numerous and various literary techniques, including allegory, metaphor, and parable. Teachers can use biblical texts to illustrate these techniques, enhancing students’ literary analysis skills. This approach allows students to appreciate the Bible’s literary craftsmanship without delving into religious doctrine.

Artistic and Musical Influence

• Art History: The Bible has inspired numerous works of art throughout history. Teachers must introduce students to famous artworks that depict biblical scenes or themes, discussing the historical and cultural context of these while remaining mindful of all rules for grade level and age level appropriate material.
• Music: Biblical texts and stories have influenced many musical compositions. Teachers can explore how composers and musicians have interpreted and expressed biblical themes through music, focusing on the cultural and historical significance rather than the religious content.

Walters also provided grade-level specific guidelines

Upper Elementary

• Narrative Elements: Discuss the elements of a story, such as plot, characters, and setting, using biblical stories as examples.
• Historical Context: Begin introducing the historical context in which these stories were written and their impact on Western culture.
• Literary Devices: Identify and discuss simple literary devices such as similes, metaphors, and personification within biblical texts.
• Music Appreciation: Introduce students to classical music pieces inspired by biblical themes, discussing the historical context and significance without focusing on religious content.

Middle School

• Textual Analysis: Engage students in more detailed analysis of biblical texts, focusing on language, structure, and themes
• Comparative Literature: Compare biblical stories with myths and legends from other cultures, examining similarities and differences.
• Historical Impact: Discuss the influence of the Bible on historical events and figures.
• Art and Music Exploration: Study famous artworks and musical compositions inspired by biblical themes, discussing their impact on culture and society while remaining mindful of all rules for grade level and age level appropriate material.

High School

• Advanced Literary Analysis: Conduct in-depth analysis of complex biblical texts, examining themes, motifs, and literary techniques.
• Historical Documents: Study primary historical documents and speeches that reference the Bible, exploring their significance and context.
• Ethical and Philosophical Discussions: Facilitate discussions on the ethical and philosophical ideas presented in the Bible and their influence on Western thought.
• Critical Essays: Assign essays that require critical thinking and analysis of the Bible’s role in literature, history, and culture.
• Art and Music Appreciation: Analyze and interpret significant artworks and musical pieces inspired by the Bible, understanding their historical and cultural relevance while remaining mindful of all rules for grade level and age level appropriate material.

Along with the Bible and Ten Commandments, each teacher will receive a copy of the Declaration of Independence and United States Constitution.

"The Bible is indispensable in understanding the development of Western civilization and American history," said Walters in a press release. "To ensure our students are equipped to understand and contextualize our nation, its culture, and its founding, every student in Oklahoma will be taught the Bible in its historical, cultural, and literary context. As we implement these standards, our schools will maintain open communication with parents to make sure they are fully informed and full partners in their kids' education."

Walters says the guidelines will provide a balanced, objective approach that ensures students do not merely see the Bible as a religious text, but as a historical and cultural artifact.

"Some educators have indicated they won't follow the law and Oklahoma standards, so let me be clear: they will comply, and I will use every means to make sure of it," Walters said.

Bixby Public Schools announced the district will maintain its current curriculum following Walters initial announcement of Bible incorporation in the classroom.

Oklahoma House Democrats advised schools to follow the law.

“Following the new guidelines from the State Superintendent of Education, I advise school districts to carefully review and follow existing state law when it comes to religious instruction in schools,” said Rep. Melissa Provenzano. “The Oklahoma Constitution is very clear on what is allowed when it comes to public education. Every family is different, and religious instruction should begin with and remain in the rightful hands of parents and guardians.”

House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson said there's a bipartisan opposition to the mandate.

“The State Superintendent continues to feel emboldened enough to make mandates he has no authority to implement,” Leader Munson said. “This is because the Republican Supermajority refuses to hold him accountable. The State Superintendent says it is Democrats that do not want these changes, but we know from actively engaging with our constituents that this Bible mandate in public schools is something both Democrats and Republicans are adamantly against. This is nothing more than an attempt to strip Oklahomans of their religious freedom. The State Superintendent can say this Bible mandate is not for religious purposes all he wants, but his unlawful, unfunded mandate and clear disregard for the legislative process says otherwise.”

Rep. Trish Ranson said Walters is pushing a religious agenda.

“The State Superintendent refuses to follow the law to push his own religious and political agenda,” Ranson said. “He should be collaborating and coordinating with districts, schoolteachers, and students. Instead, he has left them feeling unsupported and fearful for the state of education in Oklahoma.”

Walters said the new guidelines will ensure the curriculum remains inclusive and respectful of all backgrounds and beliefs.