AUSTIN, Texas — Most Texas school districts have declined to establish a daily prayer period after lawmakers required boards to formally consider the option under Senate Bill 11.
School boards were required to vote by March 1 on whether to create a voluntary devotional time during noninstructional hours. Only about 15 districts have opted in so far, despite roughly 1,200 districts and charters statewide.
Rep. David Spiller, R-Jacksboro, who sponsored the bill, emphasized that the measure is not mandatory. “The only thing that’s mandated is if they consider it. They don’t have to adopt it,” Spiller said. The law requires parental consent forms and prohibits religious readings over public address systems. Schools must also ensure non-participating students are not within earshot of devotional activities.
More than 160 faith leaders urged districts to oppose the policy, citing administrative burdens and concerns about church-state separation. Civil liberties groups, including the ACLU of Texas, argued the measure tests constitutional limits. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has encouraged participation, including reciting the Lord’s Prayer.
Some conservative districts declined the option, noting students already have protected rights to pray and form religious clubs. Others questioned whether the legislation was necessary.
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