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Elgin Independent School District officials clarified their stance on religious material in the classroom last week, following state approval of a curriculum containing biblical references.
The Texas State Board of Education approved the Bluebonnet Learning English Language Arts materials late last month, despite some opposition over the inclusion of faith-based content.
The materials passed by a narrow 8-7 vote after a motion to remove them was previously rejected.
“At this time, Elgin has not adopted any of the Bluebonnet materials,” Superintendent of Schools Jana Rueter said. “All Elgin ISD curriculum resources are selected from those approved by the Texas Education Agency.”
Elgin ISD follows both legal and local board policy regarding the study of religion in schools, according to district staff.
Under current guidelines, secular programs can instruct students on comparative religion or the history of religion and its relationship to civilization.
“ The study of the Bible, or religion for its literary and historical qualities, when presented objectively as part of a secular educational program, is consistent with the First Amendment,” the policy reads.
In line with academic freedom and legal prec- edents, the district does not tailor its teaching to the principles of any religious sect or adopt programs that aid or oppose any religion. Teachers are prohibited f rom assigning religious exercises as part of curricular activities, even if they are denominational ly neutral or voluntary, according to the board’s guidelines.
However, Elgin ISD does offer religious elect ive courses for students in grades 6 and above, including studies of the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament, and their cultural impact. The district may also offer similar courses based on other spiritual texts and “the impact such books have had on history and culture,” provided there is student and parent demand.
If fewer than 15 students at a campus register for a course, the district is not required to offer it for that semester.
According to the support resources, Elgin ISD’s policies are des i g ned to en s u r e compliance with constitutional guidelines while offering educat ional oppor tunities that explore both cultural and historical perspectives.
