House Democrats have voiced their concerns regarding the state superintendent’s proposed revisions to Oklahoma’s social studies standards. These revisions include the incorporation of the Bible as a textbook and the adoption of a classical learning model.House Democrats have voiced their concerns regarding the state superintendent’s proposed revisions to Oklahoma’s social studies standards. These revisions include the incorporation of the Bible as a textbook and the adoption of a classical learning model. Concerns Raised by House Democrats * Violation of Constitutional Rights: Democrats argue that the proposed changes infringe upon the constitutional rights of Oklahomans, particularly their right to religious freedom and a sound public education. * Political Agenda: They accuse the Superintendent of prioritizing his “extremist political agenda” over the needs of students and teachers. * Outsider Influence: Rep. John Waldron criticizes the proposed curriculum as a “carpetbagger curriculum,” claiming it was designed by out-of-state experts. * Misalignment with Community Needs: Rep. Jacob Rosecrants contends that the revisions do not address the specific needs of Oklahoma children and parents. * Undermining of Public Schools: Democrats warn that the proposed changes will pose challenges to public schools and further undermine the separation of church and state. Superintendent’s Announcement The state superintendent, while not named in the article, announced plans to revise the social studies standards. This includes incorporating the Bible as a textbook and adopting a classical learning model. Implications of the Proposed Revisions Democrats express concern that the proposed revisions could have far-reaching implications for the education system in Oklahoma. They argue that these changes violate constitutional rights, promote a particular political agenda, and fail to serve the needs of the community.
Listen to this article
OKLAHOMA CITY — House Democrats have expressed concern over the state superintendent’s announcement to revise Oklahoma’s social studies standards, including the use of the Bible as a textbook and the adoption of a classical learning model.
“The state superintendent continues to put his extremist political agenda above the needs of Oklahoma’s students and teachers,” said House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City.
She criticized the measure as a violation of constitutional rights, accusing the Superintendent’s Executive Review Committee of depriving Oklahomans of their right to religious freedom and a sound public education.
Rep. John Waldron, D-Tulsa, called the overhaul a dangerous political tactic, describing it as a “carpetbagger curriculum” designed by out-of-state experts.
Rep. Jacob Rosecrants (D-Norman) argued that the changes do not meet the needs of Oklahoma children and parents. He accused the Superintendent of pursuing a personal agenda instead of serving the community.
House Democrats argue that this latest action increases challenges for public schools and undermines the separation of church and state.
