The Texas Board of Education narrowly voted to allow Bible-based curriculum in elementary schools, with the materials being optional for schools to implement. Republican Governor Greg Abbott supports the lesson plans provided by the state’s education agency. The vote passed 8-7, with critics, including Democrat Staci Childs, expressing concerns that the curriculum may be challenged in court. The new curriculum follows efforts in other states like Oklahoma and Louisiana to introduce more religion into public schools.
The Texas Education Agency created its instruction materials after a law passed in 2023 by the GOP-controlled Legislature required the agency to do so. The lesson plans were released this spring and focus on lessons from Christianity for kindergarten through fifth grade. Critics worry that the curriculum may alienate students from different faith backgrounds and potentially violate the First Amendment.
Supporters of the curriculum argue that the Bible is a core feature of American history and teaching it will enrich students’ learning. More than 100 people testified at a board meeting, with emotions running high from parents, teachers, and advocates. Texas would be the first state to introduce Bible lessons in schools in this manner. This move is seen as part of a broader trend in the region to bring more religion into public education.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
