Oklahoma superintendent demands Bibles in all public school classrooms: What to know

Dale Denwalt
The Oklahoman
Published 9:53 a.m. CT June 28, 2024 | Updated 9:53 a.m. CT June 28, 2024

Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters issued a directive to all public schools ordering them to incorporate the Bible “as an instructional support" in the classroom.

Doing so is "a crucial step in ensuring our students grasp the core values and historical context of our country," Walters said.

Predictably, his memo to schools and the comments he made during a State Board of Education meeting Thursday triggered a political backlash from education professionals and elected officials who questioned the constitutionality of Walters' decision and whether he has the authority to issue such a directive.

Here's what we know.

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