OSDE, Supt. Walters propose new rule, introduce new social studies curriculum

OKLAHOMA CITY — State Superintendent of Education Ryan Walters and the Oklahoma State board of education convened Dec. 19 to introduce proposed rules for schools throughout the state, as well as introduce new social studies curriculum.

The proposed rule would force public schools to ask for proof of citizenship or legal immigration status while enrolling students. The rule, if passed, would violate federal law.

The rule would also require school districts to record the number of undocumented students in attendance and report the information to the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

Undocumented students would still be allowed to attend schools in Oklahoma.

There are concerns, however, that the rule would cause families of differing immigration statuses to no longer enroll their children in school.

“We’ve seen illegal immigrants pour into our state and in our schools … we are solving this problem,” Walters said in a video posted to X, formerly known as Twitter.

“President Trump and his administration have made it abundantly clear that illegal immigration will no longer be welcomed and that these issues will be dealt with. We will continue to work with President Trump and his administration to solve these problems for the taxpayers of Oklahoma,” said Walters.

The announcement of the rule was made while the OSDE board was in executive session Thursday. A press release regarding new social studies curriculum was also released.

“The new standards are among the strongest in the country: pro-America, pro-American exceptionalism, and strengthen civics and constitutional studies across every grade. They include Supt. Walters’ Bible curriculum recommendations and mention the Bible and its historical impact over 40 times,” stated the press release.

During the board meeting, Walters reiterated that the curriculum aims to strengthen understanding of the Constitution through every grade level. There are concerns by groups around the state that the curriculum itself violates the Constitution.

“Oklahoma is putting the Bible and the historical impact of Christianity back in school. We are demanding that our children learn the full and true context of our nation’s founding and of the principles that made and continue to make America great and exceptional,” said Walters. “I am proud that Oklahoma is taking the lead in putting President Trump’s education agenda into practice. We are presenting a successful model that others can emulate for how to restore public education and eradicate radical woke influences from our schools.” Walters said in the press release.

The Constitution attempted to reach OSDE for comment, no response was given.