Texas education officials are set to vote this week on a proposal to approve a new elementary school curriculum that integrates teachings from the Bible into reading and language arts lessons.

This optional curriculum represents one of the most ambitious attempts in recent years to introduce a Christian perspective into public education, testing the boundaries of religious instruction in public schools. If approved, it could serve as a model for other states and align with President-elect Donald J. Trump’s pledge to support the conservative Christian movement during his second term.

Texas has taken a leading role in the ongoing, though controversial, effort to expand the presence of religion in public life. It became the first state to permit public schools to hire religious chaplains as counselors, and its Republican-majority legislature is expected to renew efforts to mandate the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms.

The proposed curriculum, covering kindergarten through fifth grade, would be voluntary but come with financial incentives for districts that choose to adopt it. While the Texas State Board of Education sets educational standards and approves curriculum options, individual schools and districts decide which ones to implement. This curriculum could potentially reach 2.3 million public-school students across the state.

Although religion comprises a relatively small portion of the curriculum, the lessons emphasize Christianity far more than other religions. A review of the materials, supported by religious scholars and The New York Times, highlights this imbalance. For instance, kindergarteners would learn about the Golden Rule from a Christian perspective and be introduced to Jesus and the Sermon on the Mount. Fifth-grade students studying Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper would examine the Gospel of Matthew’s account of Jesus’ final meal with his disciples.

While the Bible has historically appeared in American schools, even as a teaching resource, the proposed curriculum has sparked significant controversy. Parents, teachers, and even some Christian Texans worry that the lessons blur the line between education and evangelism, presenting Christian scripture and principles as absolute truths to young children.

Supporters, including Governor Greg Abbott, argue that the Bible is a cornerstone of American history and culture, essential for a well-rounded education. Advocates believe that understanding biblical stories enriches students’ knowledge of the world.

The Texas Education Agency unveiled the curriculum after a law was passed to provide educators with free, high-quality teaching resources. However, the proposal has been met with backlash. Critics have taken issue with both the content and the process, noting that some members of the panel reviewing the curriculum have strong ties to religious advocacy. Opponents like State Representative James Talarico, a Democrat and seminary student, have expressed concern that Texas is being used to pilot extreme educational ideas.

Similar debates have arisen in other states, such as Oklahoma and Louisiana, where conservative Christian leaders are also pushing to expand religion’s role in public education. Proponents argue that exposure to Christian themes is vital for academic success, with some, like Robert Pondiscio of the American Enterprise Institute, emphasizing that biblical references are deeply embedded in the English language and Western culture.

Yet, critics say the curriculum lacks balance and inclusivity. For example, a second-grade lesson on Esther’s Old Testament story included a dice game that many found offensive, prompting its removal after public outcry. Others argue that some lessons are inaccurate or inappropriate for young students, such as teaching Genesis as a literal account of creation to kindergartners.

Religious studies experts like Mark A. Chancey and David R. Brockman have expressed concerns about bias and the curriculum’s portrayal of Christianity as inherently positive. They also note a failure to address the more complex and controversial aspects of Christian history, such as its use to justify slavery.

While supporters believe the curriculum has the potential to address reading gaps among struggling students, critics remain unconvinced, arguing that it neither meets educational standards nor respects the diverse religious backgrounds of Texas families.