Key facts
- The Texas State Board of Education will vote on a proposal to include Bible passages on a mandatory reading list for public school students.
- The proposed list, which includes literary works alongside religious texts, would take effect in 2030 if approved.
- Critics contend the list lacks diversity and violates the separation of church and state.
- Supporters view the inclusion of biblical materials as a celebration of Christian values.
- The board is also considering a social studies curriculum that connects Bible stories with American history.
The Texas State Board of Education is scheduled to vote on a proposal that would mandate the inclusion of Bible passages on a required reading list for over 5 million public school students. This initiative, which would take effect in 2030 if approved, is part of a broader conservative effort to integrate religious teachings into U.S. classrooms. The proposed list includes literary works such as Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations" alongside New Testament parables, and is seen by observers as potentially the first of its kind nationwide.
Critics argue that the reading list lacks diversity, potentially violates the constitutional separation of church and state, and limits teachers' and students' autonomy in selecting reading materials. Elva Mendoza of the Texas Freedom Network stated that the list sends a message that only Christian texts are valued. Conversely, supporters like Brooke Mazel believe the proposal aligns with America's historical Christian values.
A 2023 state law requires at least one literary work per grade level, and the proposed list contains approximately 200 texts. Educators and organizations like PEN America and the National Council of Teachers of English highlight the uniqueness of a mandatory religious text on a public school reading list, noting that such decisions are typically made at the district or school level. Examples of required readings include "David and Goliath" for elementary students and passages about Jesus for middle and high schoolers, often paired with classic literature.
Concerns have also been raised about the ideological leaning of the list, with some suggesting it amounts to censorship and excludes diverse voices. The board is also considering a social studies curriculum that links Bible stories with American history.