The Oklahoma Supreme Court declined to stay its ruling that the contract between the Statewide Charter School Board and St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School must be rescinded, intensifying a legal battle with potential national implications. [The Oklahoman]
Catch up quick: The Statewide Charter School Board refused to comply with the state Supreme Court’s directive, despite demands from Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond. The board is pushing for the U.S. Supreme Court to hear the case, which centers on the constitutionality of taxpayer-funded religious charter schools. [The Associated Press]
- St. Isidore’s stance: The school, which aims to become the first taxpayer-funded religious charter in the U.S., agreed not to begin classes for the 2024-25 school year while legal challenges play out. The school’s attorneys requested that the state Supreme Court maintain the contract in case the U.S. Supreme Court reverses the ruling, arguing that this would strengthen their case.
- The court’s response: The justices, in a 7-1 vote, denied the request without providing a detailed explanation. Justice Dana Kuehn dissented, arguing that St. Isidore should not have to restart the application process if it ultimately wins in federal court. She highlighted that the State had not demonstrated any harm in granting the stay.
What’s next: AG Drummond has asked the court to consider holding the board members in contempt if they continue to ignore the order. The Statewide Charter School Board is expected to discuss the ruling in their August 12 meeting.
The big picture: This case is being closely watched for its potential to set a precedent regarding the involvement of religion in publicly funded education. The outcome could have far-reaching effects on the landscape of charter schools.
