The Texas State Board of Education voted on Friday to approve the inclusion of Bible-based teachings in public grade schools for students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The measure passed with an 8-7 vote and schools will have the option to adopt the curriculum starting in the 2025-2026 school year.
Developed by the Texas Education Agency, the curriculum introduces Bible-centered lessons, including concepts like the Golden Rule and stories from Genesis, into classrooms. While adopting the curriculum is optional, schools that choose to implement it will receive additional funding.
This move is part of a broader trend in Republican-led states to incorporate more religious content into public education. Governor Greg Abbott has supported the initiative, stating it would help students understand the connection between history, art, literature, and religion, especially regarding key events like the signing of the U.S. Constitution, the Civil Rights Movement, and the American Revolution.
Earlier this week, the State Board of Education heard testimony from over 150 teachers and parents, with some supporting and others opposing the proposal.
Critics raised concerns that the Christian-centric curriculum could marginalize students from other religious backgrounds, while supporters argued it would offer a more comprehensive educational approach.
