Almost 25% of Texas Schools Using Bluebonnet Learning Curriculum
August 28, 2025 – Developed by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) under House Bill 1605, the Bluebonnet Learning curriculum is a state-authored, open-education resource (OER) for K–5 elementary instruction in reading, language arts (RLA), and math. Approved narrowly by the Republican-dominated State Board of Education in November 2024, the curriculum is notable—and controversial—for incorporating explicit biblical references and Christian teachings. Examples include lessons that introduce the Golden Rule through Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount, and encourage fifth graders to read narratives like the Last Supper as part of art history lessons.
What do Bluebonnet Learning materials consist of? Bluebonnet Learning is rigorous, relevant, and grade level appropriate instructional materials that include lessons on art, history, culture, science, and technology – key components of a knowledge building, content-rich curriculum. Bluebonnet Learning materials have a broad base of topics including history, literature, the arts, and culture which, when contextually relevant, can include religious topics sampling from a wide range of faiths. — Official Bluebonnet Learning FAQ
Supporters argue that these religious elements enhance cultural literacy and reflect the Bible’s foundational role in history and literature. Critics and legal advocacy groups—including the ACLU, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and the Freedom From Religion Foundation—contend that the curriculum crosses constitutional lines by privileging Christianity in public education.
The curriculum is optional, meaning districts can choose whether to adopt it. As incentive, the state offers up to $60 per student for selected districts.
Adoption Status in 2025
As of late June 2025, over 300 Texas school districts and charter schools—about 25% of the state’s 1,207 systems—have signaled intent to use parts of the Bluebonnet Learning curriculum. Breaking it down further:
- Approximately 595 districts have indicated they’ll adopt some components of the curriculum (e.g., math, phonics, or RLA)
- Around 317 districts plan to use the reading lessons, which contain the most religious content.
Regional patterns show higher adoption rates in areas like Kilgore, Amarillo, and Victoria, with lower uptake around Beaumont, Austin, and El Paso. Many districts cite practical reasons for adoption—aligning with state standards, accessing funding, or avoiding state intervention—rather than support for the curriculum’s religious components.
Bluebonnet Learning is an optional, state-rewarded curriculum that integrates Christian biblical narratives into K–5 education. In 2025, more than 300 districts plan to use it, including 317 adopting the reading components, though motivations vary across regions and districts.
