Introduction to the Controversy
The Fort Bend Independent School District has decided to move forward with considering a Bible-based curriculum, despite strong opposition from community members. The district’s board voted to approve a sample set of materials from Bluebonnet Learning, a state-developed elementary curriculum that includes biblical references in reading and language arts lessons.
What is Bluebonnet Learning?
Bluebonnet Learning is a curriculum that has been developed by the state of Texas. It includes biblical references in reading and language arts lessons for elementary students. The curriculum has been met with criticism, with many arguing that it violates the separation of church and state. The Texas State Board of Education gave final approval to Bluebonnet Learning in November, despite the criticism.
The Vote
The Fort Bend ISD board voted to approve the sample set of materials from Bluebonnet Learning. Five board members voted in favor of the sample curriculum, while two opposed it. The sample set is free of charge, but some community members have argued that the district should not waste any taxpayer dollars on the curriculum.
Concerns About the Curriculum
Many community members have expressed concerns about the curriculum, arguing that it is unbalanced and biased. Some have also argued that it violates the establishment clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which ensures a separation of church and state. At least 29 units of instruction in Bluebonnet Learning have religious references, according to district documents.
Community Reaction
The decision to approve the sample curriculum has been met with strong opposition from community members. Nine community members spoke out against the curriculum during a special called meeting, and one woman was removed from the meeting after urging trustees to refrain from adopting the curriculum. The woman argued that the Bible-infused lessons were a clear violation of the establishment clause of the First Amendment.
Next Steps
The district will use the sample set of materials to compare the curriculum to its current lesson plans for elementary students. The board has not yet voted on the full adoption of the curriculum, and it is unclear whether they will do so in the future. The decision to approve the sample curriculum has sparked a heated debate in the community, with many arguing that the district should not adopt a curriculum that includes biblical references.
Conclusion
The decision by the Fort Bend ISD board to approve a sample set of materials from Bluebonnet Learning has sparked a controversy in the community. Many community members have expressed concerns about the curriculum, arguing that it is unbalanced and biased and violates the separation of church and state. The district will now use the sample set to compare the curriculum to its current lesson plans, and it remains to be seen whether they will adopt the full curriculum in the future. The debate highlights the challenges of balancing the needs and values of a diverse community, and the importance of ensuring that public education is fair and inclusive for all students.
