"I believe it's important for historical context for kids to understand the role the Bible played." Walters also said the state Education Department wants to protect teacher's rights, adding that his office is investigating complaints from parents of a teacher who was dismissed for expressing questions about God in the classroom.

As part of that budget proposal, State Superintendent Ryan Walters is asking lawmakers for $3 million to put Bibles in Oklahoma classrooms. We're hearing mixed reactions from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, as some lawmakers are pointing out how the state constitution forbids this kind of request.

An Oklahoma State School Board member and multiple state lawmakers voiced concerns Thursday after State Superintendent Ryan Walters announced he would like the state to give his agency an additional $3 million in taxpayer dollars to purchase New King James version Bibles to put in public school classrooms.

Oklahoma’s top education official and school board will ask the state Legislature for an extra $3 million in public funds to purchase a Bible for every public

At Thursday’s State Board of Education meeting, State Superintendent Ryan Walters announced in his annual budget proposal $3 million was already being spent on classroom Bibles, and the board voted to ask the legislature for an additional $3 million.

Oklahoma’s top education official and school board will ask the state Legislature for an extra $3 million in public funds to purchase a Bible for every public