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University Fires TA Over Controversial Grading of Religious Essay

12/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The University of Oklahoma permanently removed Mel Curth, a graduate teaching assistant, after investigating her grading of a student’s essay citing religious beliefs on gender.
Samantha Fulnecky received a zero for her paper that argued against multiple genders, claiming it contradicted God's plan.
The university deemed Curth's grading arbitrary and stated Fulnecky's grade would not affect her final score.

History

Historical Context

The 1965 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in "Abington School District v. Schempp" reinforced the separation of church and state in public education by striking down mandatory Bible readings in Pennsylvania schools. This landmark decision continues to influence contemporary debates over academic freedom and religious expression, as seen in recent controversies at the University of Oklahoma regarding grading policies and personal beliefs.

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Story summary

The University of Oklahoma permanently removed Mel Curth, a graduate teaching assistant, after investigating her grading of a student’s essay citing religious beliefs on gender.
Samantha Fulnecky received a zero for her paper that argued against multiple genders, claiming it contradicted God's plan.
The university deemed Curth's grading arbitrary and stated Fulnecky's grade would not affect her final score.

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