Oklahoma has become the first state to mandate Bible instruction in public schools, sparking debate over its educational purpose and potential infringement on religious freedom. Superintendent Ryan Walters claims the move aims to educate students about the Bible’s historical influence on American history, while critics argue it promotes a specific religious viewpoint.
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick is vowing to pass a bill requiring public schools to display the Ten Commandments, following Louisiana’s recent enactment of a similar law. This comes after Patrick criticized the Texas House Speaker for blocking a previous bill. Patrick’s push highlights a growing trend among Republican lawmakers to promote religious displays in public spaces, though legal challenges are expected.
Louisiana lawmakers have passed a bill that would make the state the first to require the Ten Commandments to be displayed in all schools and colleges that receive public funding. The bill, introduced by GOP state Rep. Dodie Horton, states that the text of the Ten Commandments must be printed in classrooms on a poster no smaller than 11 inches by 14 inches and must be “the central focus” of the poster. The bill was given final approval Tuesday evening, when the state House passed it by a 79-16 vote, with only Democrats voting against the legislation. The Senate passed the bill earlier this month. Gov. Jeff Landry, a Republican, still needs to sign the new bill into law for Louisiana to make history as the first state with such a requirement. The bill is expected to face legal challenges over First Amendment concerns.
A conference committee in South Carolina has reignited discussions on a bill that aims to restrict the teaching of race-related topics in K-12 public schools. Both the House and Senate passed their respective versions of the bill in 2023. The committee has encountered differences between the two proposals, including the removal of provisions requiring teachers to post lesson plans and materials in advance and allowing parents to sue districts outside their own school district. Supporters argue that the bill protects parents’ rights and provides teachers with clear guidelines, while opponents express concerns about limiting historical discussions and subjective interpretations of historical events.
Education ministers have presented a united front, demanding an additional $12 billion in public school funding from the federal government over the next decade. States like Victoria and New South Wales have expressed concerns that the proposed conditions would burden teachers with more administrative tasks, reducing their time with students.
Governor Greg Abbott has called for a ban on teachers wearing clothing that does not conform to traditional gender norms in Texas public schools. The proposal comes after a controversy over a male teacher who wore a pink dress to school. Abbott’s comments have drawn support from lawmakers but could face legal challenges.
Teaching is a remarkable art, but it has been diminished into factory work in our society. Public education is an invaluable gift that America created, but it’s facing numerous challenges. Teachers are paid less than administrators, who prioritize their positions and salaries over the needs of children. This betrayal of trust is damaging the education system and depriving children of the best teachers. Students deserve our best, and we are not giving it. We need to create an environment where learning becomes play and structure becomes safety, where children feel supported and empowered to learn and grow.
