Controversy over Texas Science and English Textbooks: Climate Change, Evolution, and Biblical References

Conservative groups and policymakers in Texas have criticized proposed science textbooks for their emphasis on human-caused climate change and evolution, while neglecting other viewpoints such as creationism. The Texas State Board of Education recently rejected seven out of twelve proposed science textbooks due to concerns about how they presented climate change [6e3c3a21]. The decision was praised by some, including Wayne Christian, a member of the Texas Railroad Commission, who criticized climate science. While school districts in the state are not required to use the approved textbooks, they often choose them because they align with state curriculum standards. However, there are concerns that this decision may make it difficult for publishers to provide proper materials on climate change to students [6e3c3a21].

The rejection of the textbooks by the Texas State Board of Education has sparked controversy and debate. Some board members expressed worries about scaring children with doomsday narratives about climate change and the lack of discussion on the environmental impact of renewable energy. Critics argue that the rejection of certain textbooks limits students' access to information and discourages publishers from submitting textbooks in the future [d52ee864].

In addition to the controversy over science textbooks, Texas is proposing to supplement its English instruction with lessons that include Biblical references. Examples include explaining the Christian context underlying Leonardo DaVinci's painting of The Last Supper and recounting the story of Queen Esther. Reactions to mentions of religion in public education are predictable, with progressives denouncing it as indoctrination and conservatives asserting that denying the Judeo-Christian worldview is unpatriotic. However, religious beliefs underlie most social and cultural developments, and students need this background knowledge to make sense of the world and be engaged citizens. The original English colonists were deeply religious dissidents, and their language and town names reflected their self-image as the new Israelites. Religious references are also found in important civic documents and speeches, such as Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech and his "Letter from Birmingham Jail." Bible stories are a form of cross-cultural currency and can help build understanding and compassion among diverse religious beliefs. Teaching American students about the origin stories of newer Americans can help heal divisions and combat propaganda. While one can question the motives of Texas's leaders, teaching religion in schools can contribute to cultural literacy, empathy, and a better understanding of our national debate [1c967f9d].

It is important to note that the decision on which textbooks to adopt is made by the State Board of Education, while individual school districts have the freedom to choose which materials to use. This means that even though the proposed textbooks were rejected at the state level, school districts still have the option to use them if they wish [d52ee864].

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has defended a law he signed requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in public school classrooms. The law states that the signs must be posted in public school classrooms by the beginning of 2025 and include a three-paragraph statement explaining the historical significance of the Ten Commandments in American education. The move has sparked criticism and legal challenges, with the ACLU planning to file a lawsuit against the law, claiming it violates the separation of church and state. Governor Landry argues that the Ten Commandments are foundational to American laws and that living by them is a good way to live life. He also signed 18 other bills under his "Dream Big" Education Plan to reform Louisiana schools. The law has received pushback due to concerns about the state's struggling education system [e1265ef3].