Oklahoma Supreme Court Weighs Challenge to Bible Curriculum in Schools

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear a pivotal case involving the Oklahoma Statewide Charter School Board's attempt to charter St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, which was previously barred by the state supreme court due to its religious nature. Alliance Defending Freedom argues this ruling infringes on constitutional protections and educational choice, claiming the charter program has successfully improved student outcomes. Concurrently, State Superintendent Ryan Walters is facing legal challenges over his proposal to purchase Bibles and Bible-based curriculum for public schools, which critics argue violates Oklahoma's religious freedom protections. Opponents, including parents and advocacy groups, have filed a lawsuit seeking to prevent the state from using taxpayer dollars for this initiative, asserting it promotes a Christian nationalist agenda. The suit highlights concerns over church-state separation and unauthorized use of public funds, as Walters continues to push for Bible incorporation in education despite ongoing legal disputes. The outcome of these cases could significantly impact educational policies and religious freedoms in Oklahoma.