Particle.news
Download on the App Store
8 ARTICLES
·
3w ago

Oklahoma Board Rejects Ben Gamla Religious Charter Bid, Setting Up Federal Court Fight

Citing binding rulings in the St. Isidore case, members said state law requires charter schools to remain secular.

Image
The Oklahoma Statewide Charter School Board discussed and rejected an application from the National Ben Gamla Jewish Charter School Foundation on Feb. 9, 2026. (Screenshot)
Oklahoma Charter Board Blocks Proposed Jewish Virtual School, Cites Court Rulings
Image

Overview

  • The Statewide Charter School Board voted 8-0 to deny Ben Gamla’s application for a statewide virtual K–12 school.
  • Board leaders said the Oklahoma Supreme Court’s 2024 decision and a 4-4 U.S. Supreme Court split left them no legal path to approve a religious charter.
  • The board authorized hiring outside counsel in anticipation of litigation following the denial.
  • Ben Gamla and its counsel at Becket said they will file a federal lawsuit arguing the rejection violates the Free Exercise Clause.
  • The proposal described a program infused with Jewish faith and traditions, drawing opposition from Oklahoma Jewish leaders and praise for the denial from civil-rights and church–state groups.