Oklahoma City Metro School Districts Share if They Will Follow Mandated Bible Curriculum
Source: https://okcfox.com/
Several school districts in Oklahoma, particularly in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area, are assessing State Superintendent Ryan Walters’ mandate to introduce Bible teachings in classrooms. Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) is among those evaluating the implications of this mandate and awaiting further guidance from the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE). Regardless of their decision, OKCPS emphasizes its commitment to maintaining an inclusive environment that respects all religious beliefs and cultural backgrounds.
KCPS and Mustang Public Schools (MPS) in Oklahoma are both evaluating the recent mandate from the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) requiring schools to integrate the Bible, including the Ten Commandments, into the curriculum for specified grade levels. KCPS is assessing the directive’s implications as they prepare for the upcoming school year and await further guidance from OSDE. They emphasize their commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and respect for all religious beliefs and cultural backgrounds within their school community.
In contrast, Yukon Public Schools (YPS) asserts they will continue following their existing curriculum approved by state lawmakers, which includes teaching about religion while respecting individual beliefs. They highlight examples of how religious texts can be integrated into subjects such as history and literature.
Piedmont Schools in Oklahoma emphasize that their current curriculum aligns with the state-approved Oklahoma State Academic Standards (OSAS), which recognize the historical and cultural influence of various religions. While students can bring their own religious texts to school and access them through library resources and district devices, teaching specific religious doctrines or practices is not part of the current educational standards. The district aims to maintain a respectful environment that acknowledges diverse perspectives while adhering to approved educational guidelines.
Meanwhile, Choctaw-Nicoma Park Schools (CNP) states they are consulting with legal experts and the Oklahoma Attorney General to determine the official mandate regarding the incorporation of Bible teachings in classrooms. They assert that no changes will be made in the upcoming school year as they adhere strictly to existing state standards and their district’s approved curriculum. CNP underscores that any new standards proposed by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) must undergo approval by state lawmakers before implementation in classrooms, reaffirming their commitment to providing a comprehensive education in compliance with state laws.
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