Oklahoma Senate Bill SB867

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

School curriculum; directing certain history component to include certain information about the founding fathers. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

If enacted, SB867 would require the State Board of Education to formulate a social studies curriculum that reflects not only the historical diversity of the United States but also emphasizes specific teachings about America's founding principles. This could reshape the way history is taught in public schools, potentially influencing perspectives on the role of religion in the founding of the nation. The bill stipulates that state-funded educational resources must comply with these guidelines, thereby affecting the types of textbooks and materials adopted for classroom use in Oklahoma.

Summary

Senate Bill 867, introduced by Senator Bullard, focuses on amending the state education curriculum concerning social studies. The bill specifically targets the United States history component of the curriculum, requiring that it includes detailed information about the original intent of the Founding Fathers when drafting the Constitution. It mandates the teaching of primary sources from historical figures such as John Adams, George Washington, and Benjamin Rush, alongside specific quotes that relate to America's Christian heritage and the influence of the Ten Commandments.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding SB867. Advocates argue that the bill will enrich students' understanding of American history by providing exposure to primary sources and the historical context of the nation’s founding. However, critics may see it as an attempt to promote a particular ideological view in public education, emphasizing Christian principles and potentially neglecting other significant aspects of American diversity. The requirement to include specific teachings may create debates about educational objectivity, inclusivity, and the separation of church and state in the educational setting.