Did you know that our state allows the Bible to be taught as an elective class in high schools? The legislation was enacted two years ago. It gives local school districts the option to offer a course concerning the history and literature of the Old Testament era or the New Testament era. Teachers must remain objective and must follow the state standards for this instruction.
Joe MackWhy is it important that you know this? South Carolina continues to fall to the bottom levels of education among all states. We pray that our teachers will be inspired to find creative ways to present complex subjects to our children. We pray that our students will be able to concentrate and comprehend the lessons. District officials search for the latest educational innovations and make changes here and there, but we keep missing the boat!
The role of religion has played more than a significant part in history, art and society. Insight into the religious nature and beliefs of our founding fathers and other historical world leaders forms the basis to understanding our nation and the rest of the world. It is difficult to understand much of the world’s history, literature, art and contemporary life without having a working knowledge of basic Bible history and concepts.
If the high school-aged children in your school district are being deprived of this valuable education, you may want to encourage your school board to see the positive impact such a course could have. The National Council on Bible Curriculum in Public Schools (NCBCPS) will help you in this process. The Council has a booklet that gives the background of teaching Bible in the public schools. It offers suggestions on how to work with your school officials to implement the program.
The most important difference between the NCBCPS and any other religion or Bible course is that the student’s textbook is the Bible. The curriculum guide and the companion guide include samples of art, lesson plans, worksheets and exams for the entire year. This is one of the most complete and economical guides for educators. This valuable resource is being used in at least 12 school districts in our state. It would be wonderful if all 84 districts offered this course.
Bible history is foundational to the history of every society and is referenced or alluded to in much of the great literature students study. If you are interested in implementing this course in your school district, call us for contact information or visit www.bibleinschools.net.