Texas public schools may soon have the option to incorporate Bible-based teachings into their curriculum, a proposal that has ignited heated debate among educators, parents, and religious groups.
The plan, which targets students from kindergarten through fifth grade, is part of a broader Republican-driven movement to introduce more religious content into public education, a trend gaining traction across the nation.
The proposal was developed by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) earlier this year, following the passage of a state law mandating the creation of free textbooks for public schools.
At a meeting of the Texas State Board of Education on Monday, educators, parents, and religious advocates offered testimony for and against the proposal, which would allow Bible teachings—such as the Golden Rule and lessons from books like Genesis—to be included in classrooms.
While the curriculum would remain optional for individual schools, those that choose to adopt it would receive additional funding.
Why are there calls to include Bible studies in Texan Schools?
“This curriculum fails to meet the standard of an honest, secular education,” said Megan Tessler, an educator who testified against the proposal. “Public schools are meant to educate, not indoctrinate.”
On the other side of the debate, proponents argue that Bible teachings have long been an integral part of Western education.
“Parents and teachers want a return to excellence,” said Cindy Asmussen, a supporter of the plan. “Stories and concepts from the Bible have been common for centuries. They are a core part of classical learning.”
The State Board of Education is expected to hold a final vote on the measure later this week, with the outcome poised to have far-reaching implications for the state’s public education system.
Why is there opposition to proposed Bible studies in schools?
The Texas proposal is part of a broader, national push by Republican lawmakers to incorporate religious content into public school curricula.
In neighboring Oklahoma, state officials are advocating for Bible teachings in the classroom, while Louisiana recently saw a federal judge strike down a measure requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in public school classrooms.
In Texas, the proposed curriculum has drawn criticism from some who argue it could alienate students of different faiths or no faith at all.
“This is an attempt to impose one particular religious viewpoint on all students,” said one opponent during the meeting.
Religious groups and conservative advocates, however, see it as an opportunity to enrich students’ understanding of history and culture.
“Learning about the Bible’s influence on literature, law, and Western civilization is essential to a well-rounded education,” said a representative from the Texas Christian Coalition.
Critics of the plan, including religious scholars and advocacy groups like the Texas Freedom Network, have raised concerns about the proposal’s heavy focus on Christianity.
They argue it glosses over important historical topics, such as the legacy of slavery, in favor of biblical teachings.
“The curriculum prioritizes Christian doctrine over a balanced approach to American history and cultural diversity,” said the network’s spokesperson.
The move has drawn the support of Republican Governor Greg Abbott, who has publicly backed the initiative.
Newsweek contacted Texas Education Agency by email on Tuesday for comment.
As the State Board of Education prepares to vote on the curriculum this week, the controversy over religion in public schools shows no sign of abating.
The outcome will have implications not just for Texas, but for the growing movement to integrate religious teachings into U.S. education.
This article contains additional reporting from The Associated Press.
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