When Texas approved a new reading curriculum that features Bible stories in 2024, education Commissioner Mike Morath told districts they could adopt it, reject it or even adapt it to their own local needs.
But a proposed statewide reading list, which relies on some of the same biblical lessons, would not be optional.
The selections, part of a longer list that also features scripture passages for middle and high school students, include Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son for first graders and a third grade text on the Apostle Paul’s conversion to Christianity. Those are among the stories that the agency published from the Bluebonnet reading curriculum, a spokesman said.
The proposed reading list, which includes classics from Shakespeare and Poe and the writings of historical figures, is scheduled for a preliminary vote by the Texas State Board of Education Wednesday.