Texas schools may drop diversity lessons for Biblical and European focus

Texas schools may soon introduce new social studies and reading lessons that reduce focus on racial, geographic, and cultural diversity. The proposed changes also prioritise Biblical teachings and European history over other traditions. The State Board of Education will vote twice this week on the plan, which could take effect in the 2030-31 school year. The new social studies proposal removes the sixth-grade world cultures course. It also reduces the emphasis on world history outside European traditions. Students would no longer need to study the impact of race and ethnicity on society or analyse how minority groups have been treated.

Educators have criticised the plan for focusing on memorisation rather than critical thinking. They argue it oversimplifies history and lacks accuracy. Opponents also claim the changes ignore racial, ethnic, and gender inclusion, portraying only one group as America’s founders.

Some conservative Republican leaders and activists support the lessons. They see them as a way to remove what they believe is negative portrayals of America from Texas schools. During discussions, Sen. Bob Hall testified that he views Islam as a totalitarian theocracy, not a religion, and admitted he has never visited a Muslim-majority country. School board trustee Elizabeth Jensen also linked slavery to Sharia, a claim Muslims have denied as misinformation.

The reading list would include Bible stories for children as young as six, continuing through high school. If approved, the changes would reshape social studies and reading classes in Texas from 2030. The lessons would highlight Biblical teachings and European history while reducing focus on diversity and critical analysis. The State Board of Education’s votes this week will determine whether the plan moves forward.