Restoring the Missing Educational Component: NCBCPS' Bible Curriculum

Restoring the Missing Educational Component: NCBCPS' Bible Curriculum

For three decades, the National Council on Bible Curriculum in Public Schools (NCBCPS) has been tirelessly working towards a mission that may seem outdated to some: restoring the teaching of the Bible as an educational tool in public schools across America. While this endeavor may not be new, it is most certainly timely, especially given the current state of education in the United States.

The Need for a Comprehensive Education

As Elizabeth Ridenour, president of NCBCPS, so eloquently puts it: "Our students are missing something fundamental," she said. "We have been trying to address this gap through various means, but the Bible remains the foundational document of our nation's society." This assertion is backed by evidence that even children today can sense a void in their educational experience.

The Foundational Role of the Bible

Ridenour emphasizes how integral the Bible is to understanding American history, law, life, and culture. It is not merely a religious text; it is also a historical document that has shaped our nation's development. The Founding Fathers, as early as 1791, recognized this significance when Dr. Benjamin Rush, an American Founding Father from Pennsylvania, defended the use of the Bible in schools.

A Comprehensive Program for Secular Education

NCBCPS' Bible curriculum aims to provide students with a comprehensive education by incorporating the study of the Bible alongside literature and history studies. This program recognizes that students need a broader understanding of American society, its values, and its culture. By studying the Bible in an educational context, students gain insight into the impact it has had on history, law, life, and culture.

Implementing the Curriculum

To date, NCBCPS' curriculum has been used in over 4,000 schools across 42 states. The course is taught as an elective during school hours for credit, with the Bible serving as the main textbook. Each student receives a 300-page curriculum book that covers 18 teaching units, written by prestigious biblical scholars. Students also have access to additional resources, such as a suggested list of vetted reading materials and video resources.

Supporting Teachers and Schools

NCBCPS recognizes the importance of providing teachers with adequate support in implementing their curriculum. The organization offers a thorough informational packet for schools interested in adopting their program. This packet includes a copy of the entire curriculum, a booklet with helpful documents and guidelines, as well as guidance on preparing teachers through curriculum guidelines, methodology, class objectives, course outlines, and actual lesson plans.

A Free Curriculum for Public Schools

One of the most commendable aspects of NCBCPS' program is its commitment to providing a free curriculum to public schools. This decision reflects the organization's dedication to making this educational resource accessible to all schools, regardless of their financial situation. Teachers also receive an informational packet explaining all the legal guidelines for the course.

The Importance of Understanding the Bible

Elizabeth Ridenour cautions that unless students have a working knowledge of the Bible, particularly the books of the law, it is difficult to understand even the basis upon which our Constitution was founded. This assertion highlights the significance of incorporating the study of the Bible in educational curricula.

Conclusion

In conclusion, NCBCPS' Bible curriculum represents a vital step towards restoring the missing educational component that has been lacking in American education for far too long. By providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the Bible's impact on history, law, life, and culture, we can empower them to better understand our nation's society and its values. As Dr. Benjamin Rush once said, "The Bible contains more knowledge necessary to man in his present state than any other book in the world." It is time for America's schools to recognize the importance of this foundational document and incorporate it into their educational programs.