Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1027

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Schools; prohibiting public schools from using certain funds to promote concepts of social emotional learning. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

The bill's implications on state laws are significant, as it amends existing statutes relating to educational practices within public schools. By specifically targeting funding streams and instructional content associated with social emotional learning, SB1027 aims to redefine the scope of what educators can offer in schools. This change could lead to a legal shift in how educational resources are allocated and utilized, essentially establishing new guidelines that may impact curriculum choices and teaching methodologies in early childhood and beyond.

Summary

Senate Bill 1027 prohibits public schools, including public charter and virtual charter schools in Oklahoma, from using any federal, state, or private funding to promote, purchase, or utilize concepts related to social emotional learning (SEL) in the instruction or training of students. The bill explicitly defines SEL and bans any curricula that includes its concepts, which aim to enhance students' non-cognitive skills such as self-awareness and relationship skills. This legislation seeks to influence the educational framework at a fundamental level by restricting how public institutions approach aspects of student engagement and development that are often considered essential for comprehensive education.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB1027 is the potential reduction in resources available for promoting mental health and emotional well-being among students. Proponents of the bill argue that it prevents ideological influences within the education system, asserting that SEL concepts might be misused to promote particular viewpoints. Conversely, opponents are concerned that eliminating SEL programs could detrimentally affect students' overall development, particularly their ability to manage emotions and foster healthy relationships. The debate highlights differing philosophical views on the role of public education in shaping not just academic knowledge, but also the emotional and social skills of future generations.