The proposal comes as part of a larger effort by officials in Texas and across the country to inject Christianity into public life.12:25 PM CDT June 28, 2024- Members of the public told the Texas State Board of Education on Thursday they worried a proposed elementary school curriculum infused with religious references is too complicated, biased toward Christianity and below the standards of a classical education.
The board will decide whether to approve the curriculum in November. If it does, the decision to adopt the curriculum would rest with school districts. Those that use it will receive an incentive of up to $60 per student. Robert Norris, the founder of Grandparents for Public Schools, told board members that he is concerned that the materials focus too heavily on Christianity and not other religions.“This could easily lead students to believe that this religion … is the best and most important one in the world,” Norris said. “That kind of messaging does not belong in our public schools.”
But others voiced their support for the curriculum. Jonathan Covey, the director of policy for Texas Values — a nonprofit organization that describes itself as being dedicated to faith, family, and freedom — encouraged board members to vet the materials to ensure they do not promote any particular viewpoint. He said he believes the curriculum is part of an academic and rigorous-based approach to education.