The Texas State Board of Education voted Friday to approve Bible-themed lessons for elementary schools, joining a growing number of Republican-led states seeking to expand religion’s presence in public education.
The new curriculum, introduced by the Republican-controlled board, is optional for schools to implement. However, districts that adopt the materials will receive additional state funding. The lessons could be introduced in classrooms as early as the next school year.
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Republican Governor Greg Abbott has expressed his support for the initiative. The lesson plans were developed by the Texas Education Agency, which oversees the education of more than 5 million public school students across the state.
The decision has sparked significant debate among parents and educators. Critics argue that the curriculum risks alienating students from non-Christian or other religious backgrounds, potentially creating a divisive atmosphere in public classrooms.
Supporters, however, contend that the Bible plays a foundational role in American history and culture. They believe integrating biblical teachings into lessons can enrich students’ understanding of the nation’s heritage.
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Texas is not alone in this movement. Neighboring states like Oklahoma and Louisiana have also taken steps to incorporate religious materials into public education. Oklahoma’s education chief has mandated a copy of the Bible in every classroom, while Louisiana plans to require the posting of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms starting next year.
If implemented, Texas would become the first state to incorporate Bible-based teachings into public school curriculums on this scale, according to Matthew Patrick Shaw, an assistant professor of public policy and education at Vanderbilt University.
The decision reflects a broader trend in Republican-led states to reintroduce religious elements into public schools, reigniting debates about the separation of church and state.
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