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OKLA. – the Oklahoma Supreme Court has halted the implementation of new K-12 social studies standards championed by Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters and the Oklahoma State Board of Education. The decision, announced today, effectively prevents the enforcement of standards critics argued unconstitutionally favored the promotion of Christianity within public schools.
Lawsuit Challenges Standards’ Constitutionality
The ruling stems from a lawsuit filed in July by a coalition of 33 Oklahoma parents, students, teachers, and faith leaders. Plaintiffs alleged the proposed standards violated the separation of church and state, presenting religious texts as historical fact and incorporating biased interpretations of American history.
The court’s order prohibits the state from enacting the new standards and restricts the use of state funds for their implementation.This means the 2019 social studies standards will remain in effect.
Advocates Celebrate Victory for Religious Freedom and Openness
Rachel Laser, President and CEO of Americans United for Separation of church and State, hailed the decision as a win for parental rights. ”Today’s ruling will help ensure that Oklahoma families – not politicians – get to decide how and when their children engage with religion,” she stated.
Brent Rowland, Legal Director of Oklahoma Appleseed, echoed this sentiment, calling the ruling “a victory for transparency, fairness, and the constitutional rights of all Oklahomans.”
Concerns Over Historical Accuracy and Procedural Violations
The court’s review revealed significant concerns regarding the content of the proposed standards. Specifically, the ruling highlighted numerous references to Christianity and the Bible, the presentation of biblical narratives as verifiable historical events, and the inclusion of disputed accounts concerning the nation’s founding and the 2020 election.
Furthermore, the lawsuit alleged violations of the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and other procedural requirements in the standards’ advancement process.
This case underscores the ongoing debate surrounding curriculum development and the importance of maintaining a secular and factually accurate education for all students.
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