Texas public schools may soon have the option to incorporate Bible-based teachings into their curriculum, a proposal that has ignited heated debate among educators, parents, and religious groups.
The plan, which targets students from kindergarten through fifth grade, is part of a broader Republican-driven movement to introduce more religious content into public education, a trend gaining traction across the nation.
The proposal was developed by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) earlier this year, following the passage of a state law mandating the creation of free textbooks for public schools.
At a meeting of the Texas State Board of Education on Monday, educators, parents, and religious advocates offered testimony for and against the proposal, which would allow Bible teachings—such as the Golden Rule and lessons from books like Genesis—to be included in classrooms.
While the curriculum would remain optional for individual schools, those that choose to adopt it would receive additional …