AUSTIN — The Texas State Board of Education voted Friday to approve a new statewide reading curriculum that requires public school students to study selected Bible stories and passages as part of the state’s academic standards.

The approved curriculum applies to Texas public schools and will eventually affect more than 5.5 million students statewide. It includes approximately 200 required texts, among them passages from the Bible alongside works of literature, historical documents, and essays. Bible stories such as David and Goliath, Noah’s Ark, and selections from the New Testament are included in grade-level reading requirements.

The decision will also have a direct impact on schools across Wharton County. Approximately 7,500 students enrolled in Wharton ISD, El Campo ISD, Boling ISD, Louise ISD, and East Bernard ISD will be required to learn the new state-approved curriculum, including selected Bible stories and passages, once it takes effect. Because the curriculum is adopted by the state, public school districts are required to teach the material as part of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

Supporters of the changes say the Bible is included because of its historical, literary, and cultural influence on American society and Western civilization. They argue students should understand biblical references commonly found in literature, history, and public life.

Opponents, however, argue the new requirements place too much emphasis on Christianity in public schools and have raised concerns about religious neutrality, classroom time, and potential legal challenges involving the separation of church and state.

The new curriculum is scheduled to begin rolling out during the 2030–2031 school year, when Texas public schools will begin teaching the updated standards. As implementation moves forward, students across Wharton County and the rest of Texas will be required to study the state-approved material as part of their classroom instruction.