As an educator, the recent mandate by Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters to have a Bible in every classroom and to incorporate it into lesson plans for grades 5-12 is both concerning and baffling. The controversial decision has been met with resistance from lawyers for teachers and school districts for valid reasons. Not only is this mandate not tied to any specific learning objectives such as Common Core standards, but it also raises constitutional concerns regarding the separation of church and state.
The vague consequences threatened by Walters for non-compliance with this mandate only add fuel to the fire. It is clear that this move is more about political posturing than actual educational improvement.… Continue reading
As an individual deeply concerned about our education system and the potential impact of religious mandates, the recent news of Oklahoma schools being ordered to teach the Bible in grades 5 through 12 is deeply troubling. It raises significant questions about the separation of church and state, and the potential consequences of blurring those lines within our public education system.
State Superintendent Ryan Walter’s authoritarian approach to this mandate, insisting that educators comply by any means necessary, is concerning. The use of fear tactics and threats to enforce religious teaching in schools is a clear violation of the principles on which our country was founded.… Continue reading
This recent announcement by the Oklahoma state superintendent mandating the incorporation of the Bible and the Ten Commandments into school curriculums has stirred up a whirlwind of controversy and disbelief, and rightfully so. As someone who values the separation of church and state, this directive seems to be a blatant violation of that principle. The idea of requiring every classroom in the state to have a Bible and insisting that all teachers teach from it crosses a dangerous line regarding indoctrination.
The argument presented by Superintendent Walters that the Bible is a foundational document crucial for understanding the history and values of the United States is flawed and narrow-minded.… Continue reading
In the chaotic world of social media, it seems that anything is possible. And yet, every now and then, a piece of news comes along that leaves you utterly speechless. Today, I came across an article that left me questioning the state of our education system and the values that we hold dear. The headline read, “Libs of TikTok creator accused of inspiring school bomb threats named to state library board.” Yes, you heard that right. A person who has been accused of instigating bomb threats against a school library is now serving on a state library board.
Let’s delve into the details of this unbelievable story.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker