Texas Board of Education approves required reading list with Bible passages for 5 million students

The Texas State Board of Education approved a required reading list for 5 million public school students that includes Bible passages alongside works like Charles Dickens' 'Great Expectations'. The 9-5 vote with one abstention sparked debate, with critics arguing it promotes Christianity over religious diversity and supporters claiming it reflects Judeo-Christian traditions foundational to the nation. The list will take effect in the 2030-31 school year for elementary students.