School districts can choose their own lesson plans, but the state will offer an incentive of $60 per student to districts that adopt the lessons

The State Board of Education on Friday approved the Texas Education Agency’s (TEA) proposal for Texas’ state-owned textbooks, known as Bluebonnet Learning.

The SBOE approved the material by an 8-7 vote with only Republican members voting for it. All Democratic members and three Republicans opposed it.

The curriculum adopted by the state education board, which is controlled by elected Republicans, is optional for schools, but they will receive additional funding if they implement it.

Texas approves an optional Bible-based curriculum for elementary schools, causing debate over religious inclusion in education.

Texas public school districts can soon begin purchasing new reading and math textbooks developed by the Texas Education Agency. Use of the state curriculum is optional, but districts that opt in will receive additional funding.

The State Board of Education took a preliminary vote on adding biblical lessons that could come to public elementary schools. The curriculum wouldn't be required but comes with an incentive.

The curriculum’s approval was supported by Republican state leaders Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dade Phelan. It follows the passage of a 2023 bill related to open access to instructional materials for districts.