It makes sense to introduce Texas students to important moral and religious texts that have shaped our history and culture. But in a public school setting, it’s important that those studies are not limited to a single tradition.
State officials have proposed an expansive list of books and stories that could become required reading in English classes from kindergarten through 12th grade. The list includes excerpts from the Bible but no other major religious works.
The State Board of Education voted in January to table discussion about the list and may take it up again in April. One board member proposed a revised, shortened version that retains many biblical stories, according to the news outlet Community Impact. Board members should ensure any final list accommodates a wider array of faith traditions.
Moral instruction should be a part of a child’s classroom education. Our schools need to do more than fill students’ heads with facts and formulas; developing well-rounded and grounded individuals is important, too.
Some of the biblical stories that appear on the proposed list, including “The Parable of the Prodigal Son,” “Jonah and the Whale” and “The Eight Beatitudes,” have influenced secular ideas and ethics, teaching important lessons about basic morality.