Oklahoma To Put Bibles In Classrooms

The Oklahoma State Department of Education has acquired 500 Bibles for use in Advanced Placement government classrooms, with plans to expand the initiative further.

In a powerful op-ed published earlier this year, Superintendent Ryan Walters described the Bible as “the most consequential piece of literature in the history of Western civilization.” He contended that teaching the Bible in schools is not only constitutional but essential for students to fully grasp the foundations and history of the United States.

Oklahoma Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters has sparked a fresh wave of controversy with his decision to distribute 500 Bibles to Advanced Placement government classrooms, earning praise from conservatives while drawing criticism from secular organizations.

Unfazed by the backlash, Walters has remained firm in his stance, declaring, “The Bible was key to making America great” and stressing its importance in preserving that greatness.

In his op-ed, Walters emphasized the Bible’s pivotal role in shaping the moral and philosophical foundations of the nation’s founders. He cited figures like Thomas Jefferson, who referred to rights as being “endowed by our Creator,” and argued that scripture was central to the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.

This initiative is part of a broader agenda championed by Walters to instill patriotism and reclaim America’s cultural heritage. As part of this vision, he established the Office of Religious Liberty and Patriotism, advocating for the freedom to pray in schools and openly supporting the expression of religious beliefs in the educational system.

In a video aimed at students, Walters prayed for educators, schools, and President Trump, calling for a return to America’s foundational principles. For conservatives, this stands as a welcome pushback against what they view as the long-standing erosion of religious values in public education. Walters has condemned the removal of the Bible from schools as “academic malpractice,” accusing the left of waging a “militant anti-theistic march” through American institutions.

Determined to restore the Bible’s place in classrooms, Walters has also directly addressed the argument that his efforts violate the principle of “separation of church and state,” dismissing it as a “canard.” He pointed out that the framers of the Constitution saw no issue with integrating Biblical teachings into civic education and governance, arguing that the modern interpretation of the separation doctrine misrepresents the founders’ intent.

Despite vocal opposition from progressive groups, who have labeled the initiative unconstitutional, Walters remains resolute. He maintains that the Constitution’s meaning has not changed since its drafting and is confident that his policy will withstand legal challenges in court.

Ryan Walters argues that the Bible’s influence on American history is indispensable, citing its profound impact on key historical moments, from Abraham Lincoln’s battle against slavery to Martin Luther King Jr.’s leadership in the civil rights movement. Walters contends that teaching the Bible is essential not only for preserving the nation’s legacy but also for fostering patriotism in future generations.

As part of his initiative, Walters plans to distribute 55,000 Bibles across Oklahoma classrooms, positioning the state as a leader in restoring America’s religious and cultural identity.

For conservatives across the nation, Walters’ actions are seen as a model for resisting what they view as leftist overreach in education.

“Our children deserve it, and our country needs it,” Walters declared, underscoring his commitment to this ambitious effort.