The Texas State Board of Education approved a controversial new elementary curriculum on Friday that includes numerous biblical references, such as stories about King Solomon and Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount.
In an 8-7 vote, the board endorsed the state-developed “Bluebonnet Learning” English and language arts materials, despite criticism that the curriculum favors Christianity over other religions. The board, which includes 11 Republicans and four Democrats, had indicated earlier in the week that a narrow majority would support the proposal.
While schools are not required to adopt Bluebonnet Learning, the state will offer financial incentives to districts that choose to implement it.
Since its unveiling in May, the curriculum has faced significant scrutiny and criticism.
The K-5 materials include a variety of biblical references. For example, kindergarteners learn about the Golden Rule using texts from both the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament, alongside mentions of Islam and Hinduism, according to the teacher’s guide. Fifth graders are introduced to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, described as being “based on the Christian Bible story about the last meal of Jesus of Nazareth.” The curriculum also includes the Parable of the Prodigal Son, derived from the Book of Luke in the New Testament.
Mark Chancey, a religious studies professor at Southern Methodist University, testified earlier in the week that while he is not opposed to teaching religion in schools, the curriculum disproportionately emphasizes Christianity over other faiths.
“Not only is it taught in a way that promotes certain religions over others, but in many cases, it even gets the basic facts wrong,” Chancey said.
Supporters of the curriculum argue that it offers a balanced approach and introduces students to classic literature.
