Oklahoma High Schools Introduce Conspiracy Theory Curriculum

Students in an Oklahoma high school debate conspiracy theories during a social studies class.

News Summary

Oklahoma high schools are set to revise their social studies curriculum, focusing on conspiracy theories related to the 2020 presidential election. The changes, spearheaded by the State School Superintendent, aim to blend traditional values and historical lessons with a focus on identifying discrepancies in election outcomes. However, the new standards have drawn mixed reactions from educators and parents, with concerns over bias, transparency, and the integrity of education. Legal challenges have arisen against the revisions, while discussions also address controversial topics like the origins of COVID-19.

Oklahoma High Schools to Dive Deep into Conspiracy Theories!

Starting next school year, high school students in Oklahoma will be learning about **_conspiracy theories_** related to the **_2020 presidential election_**. Yes, you heard that right! The recently **_revised social studies standards_** will focus heavily on these theories as part of the curriculum. Can you imagine what that’s going to look like in classrooms?

A Shift in Education Philosophy

The new changes are the brainchild of the State School Superintendent, who has made it clear that he wants to steer education back to **_traditional values_** and themes of **_national pride_**. Part of this revised curriculum is an emphasis on referencing the **_Bible_**, creating a blend of history with religious studies that some think is quite unique for a modern classroom setting.

What’s New in the Curriculum?

Previously, the standards asked students to simply “examine issues related to the election of 2020 and its outcome.” With the recent adjustments, students are now required to “**_identify discrepancies in 2020 election results_**.” This means they will be looking into specific claims—like the idea that there were sudden halts during ballot counting and concerns about mail-in ballots.

Mixed Reactions from Educators and Parents

These changes haven’t come without their fair share of **_controversy_**. Many educators, parents, and even some Republican lawmakers have voiced their concerns. They worry about the lack of thorough reviews and transparency surrounding this process. Some fear that teachers, especially in more conservative areas, may impose their own views on students, leading to a classroom atmosphere that’s anything but neutral.

A Legal Challenge

In response to these shifts, several parents and educators have jumped into action, filing a lawsuit challenging the new standards. They argue that the curriculum promotes a **_biased view_** of social studies, stripping away the objective principles that education should strive to uphold.

Influence of Conservative Voices

Interestingly, some of the key players involved in crafting these revised standards include out-of-state conservative pundits and organizations. They focus largely on messaging about **_American exceptionalism_** and want to weave biblical content into lessons. While officials assert that these standards are designed to promote **_critical thinking_**, many critics feel they just end up spreading **_misinformation_** about the election.

Election Integrity in Question?

It’s hard to forget that recounts and audits in battleground states confirmed **_Joe Biden’s victory_**, which adds another layer of complexity to the discussions. The concerns about transparency keep piling up, with claims that last-minute changes were made without adequate oversight before the school board cast their votes.

Political Perspectives

Recently, during a legislative session, lawmakers opted not to take action against these new standards. This means that they will go into effect as planned. Some members of the state’s Democratic legislature have taken a strong stance against the changes, calling them **_dangerous_** and filled with political bias. They believe that bringing partisan issues into education is not just inappropriate, but could also harm the integrity of Oklahoma’s education system.

COVID-19 Origins Also Under Scrutiny

As if teaching about the election wasn’t enough, the standards will also require students to examine the **_origins of COVID-19_**, suggesting it stemmed from a **_Chinese lab_**. This inclusion has sparked further discussions about how public health issues should be taught in schools.

Back to Old Standards?

Previously, Oklahoma’s social studies standards were quite well-rounded and prided themselves on being comprehensive. With the latest changes, there is widespread worry that the state is moving away from its strong foundation in history education. We can only wait and see how these new standards will shape the learning experiences of Oklahoma students in the coming years!