Valley teachers union reacts to Texas Education Board approving bible lessons in elementary classrooms
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The Texas Education Board approved bible lessons in elementary classrooms on Friday.
The lessons are optional and could start as early as next year. Most of the parents in the Rio Grande Valley are in support of this new curriculum being taught in school, but one local teachers union doesn't agree.
School districts across the state now have the option to bible lessons in the classroom, it's an option some are welcoming.
"It would be something good for the students so they can learn more about it, because sometimes us, as parents, we don't have time," parent Rosa Aguirre said.
The state's school board voted to approve the new curriculum by the state's education agency; the decision was eight to seven.
One of the state board members who voted against the curriculum says the lessons heavily favor Christianity over other faiths.
Advisor and Consultant for Brownsville Educators Stand Together AFT, Patrick Hammes, agrees faith lessons should be kept out of the classroom.
"The problem with this is which religion do you favor? Are we going to teach them Qatar? Are we going to teach the Quorum? Are we going to teach the King James Bible or another variation of the bible? How do you favor one over the other?" Hammes said.
Schools don't have to use the curriculum, but those that do will receive an incentive of $60 per student.
The union worries if a district elects to adopt this curriculum, it could push other lessons aside.
If a school district takes up the bible-incorporated curriculum, it would be taught in kindergarten through 5th grade classes.
The law is set to take effect in August, it will likely be challenged in court before then.
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