government
Texas State Board of Education votes to require millions of students to study Bible stories
By CNN at KVIA ABC-7
· June 27, 2026
· 8 min read
CNN
By Elizabeth Wolfe, CNN
(CNN) — The Texas State Board of Education has approved a proposal that will establish lists of required reading — including Bible verses alongside classic titles — for its K-12 English and literature curriculum.
The plan will impact more than 5 million public sc...
Key takeaway ” The effort goes far beyond a 2023 law that requires at least one state board-approved literary work be taught in each grade level.
Why this matters in The El Paso
The Texas State Board of Education's decision to require Bible stories in the K-12 English and literature curriculum will have a significant impact on El Paso 's public school students. With over 5 million students affected statewide, El Paso's large and diverse student population will be among those navigating this new curriculum. The inclusion of Bible verses alongside classic titles may raise questions about the balance between literary analysis and religious instruction in the classroom. As El Paso students and teachers adapt to these changes, it will be important to monitor how the new curriculum is implemented and received in local schools. The city's strong cultural and religious diversity may also lead to unique perspectives and challenges in teaching these required texts, making it crucial for educators and community members to engage in ongoing discussions about the role of religion in public education.
About this story
Original reporting by KVIA ABC-7 . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KVIA ABC-7 . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: government ·
Published: June 27, 2026 ·
Source: KVIA ABC-7 ·
Reading time: 8 min
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What is this story about? CNN
By Elizabeth Wolfe, CNN
(CNN) — The Texas State Board of Education has approved a proposal that will establish lists of required reading — including Bible verses alongside classic titles — for its K-12 English and literature curriculum.
The plan will impact more than 5 million public sc...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 27, 2026 by KVIA ABC-7 and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by CNN at KVIA ABC-7. To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more government coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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