Texas education leaders are discussing adding Bible texts to school reading lists

The Texas State Board of Education met this week in Austin to consider controversial changes to the public school curriculum, including a proposal to add Bible texts to mandatory reading lists for students from kindergarten through high school, as well as revisions to social studies standards

Texas education leaders are discussing adding Bible texts to school reading lists
Bible/ File: CBS News

According to CBS News, the discussion about mandatory Bible readings stems from the 2023 law 88(R) HB 1605, which requires the Texas Education Agency to recommend at least one mandatory reading at each grade level. After conducting a survey among thousands of teachers, the agency compiled a list of approximately 300 literary works covering K–12 grades. Proposed Bible texts spark debate

Among the most controversial elements are several Bible passages proposed at multiple grade levels. The draft list includes:

  • The Golden Rule (Kindergarten)

  • Parable of the Prodigal Son (Grade 1)

  • Road to Damascus (Grade 3)

  • David and Goliath (English I)

  • Lamentations (English I)

  • Psalms (Grade 7)

  • Jonah and the Whale (Grade 7)

  • Tower of Babel (English II)

  • Ecclesiastes (English III)

  • Book of Job (English IV)

On Tuesday, about 100 people testified before the board, and many argued that including Bible texts in the public school curriculum violates the separation of church and state. Others said the list is too extensive and difficult to fully teach within one academic year, while some expressed concerns that it limits teachers’ ability to choose their own materials. The TEA draft also states that parents can opt their children out of certain readings if they conflict with their religious or moral beliefs.

After 7 hours of testimony both for and against, no action was taken. A final vote is expected in June. If this reading list is approved, it will be implemented in the 2030–2031 academic year.

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