### El Paso ISD Reverses Decision on Bible-Based Curriculum Adoption

In a surprising turn of events, El Paso's largest school district has backtracked on its initial plan to adopt Bible-based teachings for elementary school students. The reversal follows the Texas State Board of Education's recent narrow approval of the Bluebonnet Curriculum, which offers lessons derived from biblical texts such as the "Golden Rule" and stories from the Book of Genesis.

Initially, El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) had announced it would incorporate the new curriculum by the 2026-27 school year. The district had planned to use educational materials from Amplify, Eureka, and Carnegie for the next two years, before transitioning to the Bluebonnet Curriculum. "We are always working to ensure all curriculum materials are of the highest possible educational standard, appropriate for our students, and in line with any state policy mandates," the district had previously stated.

However, the district has since issued a retraction, clarifying that no new curriculum will be adopted. "El Paso ISD would like to clarify that the district will not be transitioning to or adopting any new curriculum at this time or in the near future," the retraction read. "We apologize for any confusion caused by the previous statement."

The decision has sparked a range of reactions among El Paso residents. While some, like Daniel Enriquez, support the idea, saying, "It is definitely a good idea," others have expressed more enthusiastic approval. "We need God back in our schools," stated a resident who did not provide a name. Jonathon, another resident, echoed this sentiment despite not identifying as religious himself, citing the country's "large Christian backbone."

Despite the state board's approval, several local school districts, including Ysleta Independent School District, San Elizario ISD, and Socorro ISD, have already announced they will not implement the new curriculum. "At this time, Ysleta ISD is not considering making any changes to its current instructional framework," a YISD spokesperson stated. San Elizario ISD Superintendent Jeannie Meza-Chavez said, "We presently have a curriculum already in place."

Other districts like Canutillo and Clint ISDs are still undecided. Canutillo stated that the topic has yet to be discussed by the administration, and Clint ISD mentioned they are attending information sessions and involving teachers and parents in the decision process.

The debate continues online as well, with some commenters advocating for the separation of church and state in public schools. Others believe that if religious teachings are to be included, all religions should be represented, suggesting options like religious private schools or homeschooling for those interested in religious education.

As communities and school districts weigh the implications of the state board's decision, the discussion around educational standards and religious teachings remains a hot topic in El Paso.