Everybody knows the stories commonly read in English classes — Romeo and Juliet, The Great Gatsby, Frankenstein, and so many more. But now, a new book may be joining the curriculum: the Holy Bible.
The Texas State Department of Education voted to allow public schools to use the Bible as part of the curriculum from kindergarten to fifth grade. According to AP News, schools are not required to use this material, but those who do will receive extra funding from the state.
Some students believe that by using these stories, schools are pushing one religion onto young, impressionable children.
“Implementing the Bible in schools would not be fair to the students and teachers that are not Christian and would go against their religious freedom and rights,” junior Swekriti Bashyal said. “If it were to be implemented in classrooms, it should be taught as a historical document alongside other religious texts representing other religions and traditions.”
Other students believe there is value in these stories, whether it be from their lessons or the history surrounding them.
“I don’t see anything wrong with having the Bible in schools,” senior Grayson Henson said. “It’s an influential piece of literature like Shakespeare or anything else.”
Other similar laws have been vetoed in states like Louisiana and Oklahoma. Louisiana attempted to pass a law mandating the Ten Commandments to be prominently displayed in classrooms, while Oklahoma also attempted to include the Bible in lesson plans. However, Oklahoma faced a lawsuit by a parent, so the Bible is no longer included in the curriculum.
This decision has sparked debate among students and faculty, with strong points on both sides. However, one thing is for certain: the inclusion of the Holy Bible in school has added to the ongoing conversation of where to draw the line between church and state.
“I love Jesus Christ and show him attention any free time I get, but in school we have others that may not believe in Christ or some that cherish him in other ways,” junior Kinnidy Northcross said. “Religion and education should be kept separate to keep the peace in schools.”