They Said It Couldn’t Be Done – Texas Schools Just Took a Big Step!

In a narrow and contentious decision, the Texas State Board of Education has approved a Bible-centered curriculum for public school students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The decision has sparked heated debates, highlighting a growing trend in Republican-led states to integrate Christian teachings into public education.

The “BlueBonnet” curriculum, which draws heavily from the Bible, including passages from Genesis, Psalms, and the New Testament, is not mandatory for schools. However, districts that adopt it will receive a $40 per student funding bonus to purchase related materials. The curriculum will be available in classrooms starting August 2025.

A Divisive Decision

The board’s 8-7 vote was sharply divided, with four Democrats and three Republicans opposing the move. While the approved curriculum is currently slated for use only in English Language Arts and Reading, there are discussions about extending its reach into other subjects.

Critics argue that the curriculum blurs the line between church and state. The Texas American Federation of Teachers released a statement condemning the move: “The materials contain an unwelcome and unnecessary quantity of Bible references. Not only do these materials violate the separation of church and state and the academic freedom of our classroom, but also the sanctity of the teaching profession.”

Incentives Without Mandates

While districts are not required to use the BlueBonnet curriculum, the financial incentives are seen as a significant push. Each school that chooses the curriculum will receive additional funding, raising concerns among opponents who believe this creates an uneven playing field for secular education.

Teachers and administrators have the flexibility to design their lesson plans within the framework, but critics worry that such incentives could pressure schools to adopt religious-based teachings, even if they don’t align with the broader community’s values.

A Nationwide Trend

The Texas decision is not isolated. Across the country, Republican-controlled states are increasingly advocating for the inclusion of Christian teachings in public schools. In Louisiana, for instance, a law requiring schools to display the Ten Commandments has been temporarily halted by a federal court after a parents’ group challenged it.

Oklahoma has also seen a surge in Bible-related mandates. Earlier this year, the state ordered schools to include Bible lessons for students in grades five through twelve. The decision is currently being challenged in court. In a controversial move, Superintendent Ryan Walters announced that 500 copies of a Bible edition published by President-elect Donald Trump were purchased for some high school government classes. Walters described these as including “foundational documents” like the Declaration of Independence.

Broader Implications

Superintendent Walters has faced criticism for his religious-focused policies, which include requiring schools to show a video of him praying for Trump. While some districts complied, others refused, sparking further backlash.

As similar efforts gain momentum nationwide, the debate over the separation of church and state intensifies. Supporters argue that Bible-based teachings offer cultural and moral lessons valuable for young learners. Opponents counter that public education should remain neutral and inclusive for students of all backgrounds.

Looking Ahead

The introduction of the BlueBonnet curriculum in Texas is expected to have a ripple effect on education policies across the country. As schools prepare for its rollout in 2025, the debate over its impact on students, teachers, and communities is far from over.

Whether the move represents a revival of traditional values or an erosion of secular education, one thing is certain: the discussion around religion in schools is only just beginning.