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Texas Schools Consider Bible Teachings in Curriculum
Texas public schools may soon offer lessons based on the Bible for kindergarten through fifth graders. The proposal, backed by Republicans, has sparked heated debate.
Teachers and parents have testified for and against the curriculum at a Texas State Board of Education meeting. Supporters believe it will enhance education with biblical teachings. However, opponents argue that it violates the secular nature of public schools and alienates students from other religions.
The curriculum includes the Golden Rule and lessons from Genesis. Schools can choose to adopt it, but they will receive extra funding if they do.
Similar efforts are underway in other states. Oklahoma is exploring adding the Bible to lesson plans, while Louisiana recently rejected displaying the Ten Commandments in classrooms.
Religious experts and the Texas Freedom Network have criticized the proposal for its focus on Christianity and its omission of the history of slavery.
The Board of Education is expected to vote on the proposal on Friday. Republican lawmakers have also proposed displaying the Ten Commandments in classrooms, and they are likely to continue pushing for religious teachings in schools.