The Texas State Board of Education voted Friday to approve an optional curriculum for public schools that includes lessons based on Bible stories and ancient texts.
The board, made up of 10 Republicans and five Democrats, narrowly passed the new curriculum on an 8-7 vote. The vote gives public schools the green light to implement the measure in grades kindergarten through fifth grade, and gives them an additional $60 per student if they choose.
The curriculum, which has been praised by state leaders but infuriated some, includes teaching kindergartners about the Golden Rule through Bible verses from the book of Matthew. It also instructs teachers to explain that the Bible is a “collection of ancient texts,” some of which are “core books of the Jewish and Christian religions.”
Other lessons include a first-grade unit that teaches the New Testament’s “Parable of the Prodigal Son,” a third-grade unit on ancient Rome that introduces students to the life of Jesus Christ and Christianity in the Roman Empire, and a fifth-grade unit. Included. A unit where students add Bible psalms to supplement other poems they have read.
Critics say the new inclusion is unconstitutional and shows Christian bias at the expense of other religions.
Rachel Laser, CEO of Americans United for the Separation of Church and State, a nonprofit organization, said, “Politicians are the ones who decide whether, when, and how children engage with religion.” It should be parents and families, not government officials.”
The ACLU of Texas also accused the curriculum of “gross disregard for religious freedom.”
“The Bluebonnet curriculum flagrantly disregards the religious freedom that has been a cornerstone of our country since its founding. We call on school districts to reject this optional curriculum and support public school education that respects the religious diversity and constitutional rights of Texas students.” Free Speech Coordinator Karo Achar said.
Still, state leaders such as Gov. Greg Abbott (R-Texas) praised the ruling and the curriculum, saying it “takes students back to the basics of education.”
“Bluebonnet Learning takes students back to the basics of education. These materials are optional and free to schools. We also give parents access to the materials online. This is an important step in providing a foundation for living a life,” he posted on X, along with a lengthy statement about the verdict.
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick also praised the ruling, saying it “ensures all students receive appropriate grade-level instruction and is an important step toward improving student achievement across the state.” ”.
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“Improving public education has been one of my top goals since I took office in the Texas State Senate. School districts that already have high-quality curriculum in place have significantly improved student outcomes. Today’s (Texas State Board of Education) vote for quality curriculum ensures that all students receive grade-level instruction across the state. “This is an important step towards improving student performance in the United States,” he posted on X.
The Texas Board of Education’s move follows efforts in other states to incorporate more religious themes and lessons into classrooms. These states include Louisiana, which is trying to spread the Ten Commandments in public classrooms, and Oklahoma, which is trying to incorporate the Bible into classrooms.
