AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas State Board of Education is considering a proposal to include Bible passages in required public school reading lists, part of a broader push to expand religious content in classrooms.
Under the proposal, seventh-grade students could be assigned readings such as the story of Jonah and the whale and Psalm 23, along with other biblical selections including David and Goliath and the Tower of Babel. The Republican-led board is expected to hold a preliminary vote this week, with a final decision anticipated in June. If approved, the changes would not take effect until 2030.
Supporters argue the additions reflect the Bible’s historical and literary influence, while critics raise concerns about the separation of church and state and the potential impact on religious neutrality in public education.
The proposal has also drawn criticism over representation, with some arguing the reading list lacks sufficient inclusion of Hispanic and Black authors. The debate comes as Texas and other states continue efforts to incorporate religious elements into schools, including policies related to displaying the Ten Commandments in classrooms.
Legal challenges surrounding similar initiatives are ongoing, and any approved changes could face further scrutiny in the courts.
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