Texas education officials have approved a plan that will require public school students to read selected Bible passages as part of their classroom instruction beginning in the 2030–2031 school year.The Texas State Board of Education voted to adopt a statewide literary reading list that includes passages from the Christian Bible along with other classic texts. The requirement will apply to public school students across grades once it is fully implemented.Under the approved framework, schools will incorporate Bible excerpts into English and language arts instruction. Reported selections include well-known biblical stories such as “David and Goliath,” “Noah’s Ark,” and passages from the New Testament.Supporters of the plan argue that the Bible has historical and cultural significance in understanding references in American literature and society. Some board members have said the goal is to expose students to influential texts that have shaped Western literary tradition rather than to promote religious instruction.Critics have raised concerns about the inclusion of Christian scripture in required public school curriculum. Opponents argue that the policy may blur the line between religious teaching and public education, and they question whether the list adequately reflects religious diversity.The decision is part of a broader curriculum overhaul in Texas that follows a 2023 state law requiring education officials to develop a required reading list for students. The state has also expanded optional and supplemental instructional materials that include religious content in earlier grades.The plan is set to roll out gradually, beginning with elementary school levels before expanding to higher grades in later years. Officials have stated that additional implementation details, including teacher guidance and instructional standards, will be finalized before the rollout begins.Texas, which educates millions of students, will become the first US state to require specific Bible passages as part of a mandatory reading list in public schools if the plan is fully implemented as scheduled.
