Texas Education Board Approves Bible-based Reading Requirements in Public Schools

The Texas State Board of Education has approved a new curriculum plan that would require Bible-related readings for public school students across Texas. The measure passed in a 9–5 vote, with one Republican joining Democrats in opposition, and is expected to take effect in 2030.

The approved materials include selected biblical passages such as the creation story of Adam and Eve and the Exodus narrative, where Moses encounters God through the burning bush. Alongside these, the curriculum also features classical literature from authors such as Charles Dickens and William Shakespeare as part of broader reading requirements.

The decision has sparked strong debate over the separation of church and state in public education. Supporters argue it restores exposure to historically significant texts, while critics say it risks infringing on religious freedom and reducing curricular diversity in public schools.