Judge tosses lawsuit challenging Oklahoma’s new social studies standards

An Oklahoma judge has dismissed a lawsuit challenging the state’s newly adopted social studies standards, which include controversial content about the 2020 election and religious topics.

The lawsuit, filed by a group of parents and grandparents, argued the standards were rushed through without proper approval and that board members were unaware of last-minute changes. However, the court ruled the plaintiffs did not have the legal standing.

Court Sides with Superintendent Walters

In the decision, the judge sided with Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters, concluding that the court cannot intervene in the setting of education standards because only lawmakers have the authority to make such changes.

A resolution to block the standards failed to receive a vote at the Capitol. As a result, the standards took effect automatically.

Walters Defends New Content

Superintendent Walters stated the ruling, saying:

“I am unapologetic that students will receive a pro-America education as the days of pushing woke DEI, CRT, and anti-American propaganda in our schools are over.”

What This Means for Classrooms

With the legal challenge dismissed, schools are expected to begin implementing the new curriculum by the fall. Walters says Bibles will be available in every Oklahoma classroom by that time.

However, state lawmakers did not allocate funding for the initiative in the 2026 budget. Instead, Walters says he has launched a donation campaign to collect enough Bibles for statewide distribution.