The Texas Education Board voted Friday, Nov. 22, to approve the inclusion of Bible-based lessons in public elementary schools, aligning with similar efforts in other Republican-led states to introduce more religious content into public education. The curriculum, which is optional for schools to adopt, includes a financial incentive, $60 per student, for schools that choose to implement the Bible-based lessons.
Created by the Texas Education Agency, the new classroom material features lessons centered on Christian teachings, such as stories from the Book of Genesis and moral principles like the golden rule.
Supporters argued that incorporating the Bible into education enriches students’ understanding of American history and culture.
Opponents contended that the curriculum could alienate students from diverse religious backgrounds and possibly violate the First Amendment’s separation of church and state. Earlier this week, more than 100 people testified at a board meeting, expressing their support and opposition to the proposed Bible lessons.
With the curriculum now approved by the Texas Education Board, Texas will become the first state to implement Bible lessons in public schools in this manner, according to The Associated Press.
However, the curriculum may face legal challenges from opponents. In Oklahoma, state officials made a similar push to incorporate Bible lessons, but a lawsuit has led the state Supreme Court to become involved.
In Louisiana, a law requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in all public classrooms has also been held up in court as legal challenges continue.
The Texas board voted 8-7 in favor of implementing the Bible lessons, with the materials expected to appear in classrooms as soon as the 2025-2026 school year.
