Asked Tuesday night whether he would implement the policy if elected as the next education secretary, Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters did not dismiss the idea of a state mandate for Bibles in schools. Ta.
“I believe that if you're teaching American history, the Bible should absolutely be included. And we can't allow left-wing activists to sit here and say we don't like Christianity. ,” Walters said on NewsNation's “The Hill” after a question from host Blake Berman due to speculation that President-elect Trump may choose him to lead. spoke. Ministry of Education.
When asked if he would require the use of the Bible in schools across the country, Walters replied: We will ensure that history is taught in all classes. It means kids will learn about American exceptionalism. ”
“So our kids are going to see the role that faith has played. Here in Oklahoma, we're unapologetic about that. We're going to teach everyone about the role that the Bible has played in American history.” “I want my students to know,” he added.
Walters said Oklahoma requires the use of the Bible in all public school classrooms and requires teachers to include lessons about how the Bible has influenced American history and culture. Because it is mandatory, it has attracted national attention.
Walters was sued in October over the policy by more than 30 educators, parents and people who invest in public education, calling it unconstitutional.
Walters has declined to comment on whether he has discussed the education secretary position with President Trump, but he strongly supports the president-elect's victory.
He recently announced the creation of a state advisory committee focused on helping Oklahoma effectively implement the federal education changes President Trump will make once he takes office.
Walters also said he supports President Trump's plan to abolish the Department of Education.
“You won't believe it. I mean, President Trump has put forth the boldest, most aggressive, most conservative presidential candidate's best plan for education. This is the reform we need. Federal. We're abolishing the Department of Education. What we don't need anymore is this overreach and left-wing movement trying to push the state towards an agenda,” the state superintendent told NewsNation.
NewsNation is owned by NexstarMediaGroup, which also owns The Hill.
