Texas Refuses to Disclose Author of Million Dollar Bible-Infused Curriculum

After igniting controversy with a new curriculum that integrated Bible teachings, Texas is still withholding information on the authors and compensation for the content, nearly three months later. The state education officials cite pandemic-related exemptions for not disclosing these details.

According to a state official, the $84 million contract signed in March 2022 falls under a disaster declaration by Gov. Greg Abbott, exempting it from the typical transparency requirements. This lack of transparency has raised concerns among some members of the state board of education.

Evelyn Brooks, a Republican board member, expressed frustration at not receiving clear answers about the curriculum’s authors. She is joined by other board members who are seeking more transparency from Education Commissioner Mike Morath and his team regarding the development process.

The revamp aims to introduce classical education to over 2 million K-5 students in Texas, focusing on enhancing reading skills and imparting cultural and historical knowledge, including the influence of the Bible. Morath indicated that “hundreds of people” collaborated on the project during an interview in early May.

However, some board members remain critical, suggesting that the curriculum could be seen as evangelizing and presenting a biased view of American history. Concerns have been raised about the extensive biblical references in lessons taught across public schools in Texas.

Texas is offering financial incentives to school districts to adopt the curriculum, with up to $60 per student totaling $540 million available. This offer is viewed as a significant motivator for cash-strapped districts facing budget challenges.

The growing controversy around incorporating Bible teachings in school curricula is not unique to Texas. Several neighboring states are also showing support for similar initiatives, although Texas has made more substantial investments in aligning its curriculum with Judeo-Christian values.

The development of the new curriculum involved collaborations with external organizations like the Texas Public Policy Foundation and Hillsdale College. While the latter contributed resources on early American history for free, specific details about the foundation’s role remain undisclosed.

Despite contractual obligations for payment reports, the state’s emergency order during the pandemic has led to the exclusion of financial disclosures. This lack of transparency has fueled concerns and calls for clarity among educational stakeholders.

Some board members, including prominent Republicans, question the influence of political considerations on the curriculum overhaul. They are cautious of the potential biases and the motives behind the substantial focus on biblical teachings in the proposed materials.

Critics, like Rep. James Talarico, have raised issues concerning the curriculum’s content accuracy and its ability to prepare students for a diverse society. The emphasis on biblical narratives has sparked debates about the appropriateness of such lessons in public education.

While supporters argue that the curriculum appeals to constituents seeking faith-based instruction, dissenting voices stress the need for comprehensive and unbiased educational materials that prioritize academic excellence.

Questions surrounding the development of lessons and their alignment with state standards continue to surface, suggesting a significant divide among board members and the public regarding the proposed changes.

The ongoing debate reflects broader tensions regarding the integration of religion in public education and highlights the need for transparent and inclusive educational policies that benefit all students.