The Texas Board of Education is set to vote Friday on a proposed K-5 curriculum that incorporates teachings from the Bible and Christian principles, following a preliminary vote that signaled its likely approval.
The proposed curriculum, developed by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and referred to as Bluebonnet Learning, includes lessons on Biblical stories and Christian values. Key topics range from the story of Moses and the Good Samaritan to readings from The Book of Genesis and teachings on the Golden Rule. The materials have faced criticism for historical inaccuracies, such as the claim that “Abraham Lincoln and other leading abolitionists relied on a deep Christian faith,” a statement that oversimplifies and misrepresents historical debate about Lincoln’s religious beliefs.
The lessons are optional, but districts that adopt the curriculum will receive a minimum of $40 per student in funding for using state-approved materials, under local legislative guidelines.
Supporters Cite Historical and Moral Value
Proponents of the curriculum argue that religious teachings can provide essential historical context for understanding pivotal events in U.S. history, such as the signing of the Constitution, the Civil Rights Movement, and the American Revolution.
Governor Greg Abbott has expressed strong support for the program, emphasizing its potential to enhance students’ understanding of the intersections between history, art, community, literature, and religion.
In a May statement, Abbott said, “The materials will allow our students to better understand the connection of history, art, community, literature, and religion on pivotal events… I thank the TEA for their work to ensure our students receive a robust educational foundation to succeed so that we can build a brighter Texas for generations to come.”
Critics Highlight Constitutional Concerns
Opponents argue that introducing Christian teachings into public schools infringes on First Amendment rights, which guarantee freedom of religion. Critics claim that the curriculum forces classrooms to engage in Christian instruction, blurring the line between church and state.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), an advocacy group focused on maintaining the separation of church and state, has been one of the most vocal critics of the proposal.
“The curriculum targets the youngest, most impressionable elementary students, starting by introducing kindergartners to Jesus,” said FFRF Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor in an online statement ahead of the vote. “Religious instruction is the purview of parents, not proselytizing school boards. This is a shameful ruse by Christian nationalists in Texas who see the schools as a mission field.”
Part of a Larger Trend
Texas is one of several states, including Oklahoma and Louisiana, leading efforts to incorporate Christian-based elements into public school education. Similar initiatives have promoted the inclusion of Bibles, the Ten Commandments, and other religious doctrines in schools, sparking widespread debate over their implications for public education and constitutional rights.
The outcome of Friday’s vote could set a significant precedent, not only for Texas but also for other states considering similar measures.
