Texas Pushing a Christian Agenda? TEA Unveils Curriculum Proposal with Biblical References

Texas is in the midst of a new heated debate over a proposed overhaul of its elementary school curriculum. The Texas Education Agency (TEA), the governmental body responsible for overseeing public and primary and secondary education throughout Texas, released thousands of pages of proposed learning materials, and a key feature has drawn criticism and praise in equal measure: the inclusion of biblical references in reading and language arts lessons. The proposal includes stories from the Gospel of Matthew, the Psalms of David, and references to the Last Supper. For first graders, the word “compromise” might be taught using the example of Samuel Adams’ plea for different faiths to pray together at the Continental Congress. In fifth grade, a lesson on Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” might connect to the Gospel of Matthew, referencing Jesus’ crucifixion and students might be exposed to the Psalms of David in a poetry lesson. Texas Seeks to Inject Bible Stories into Elementary School Reading Program | Source: www.the74million.com However, it also incorporates aspects of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism. Proponents, largely aligned with the Texas Republican party, view this as a way to expose students to the state’s diverse religious landscape. They argue it fosters...