The Texas State Board of Education has approved a new list of required reading for public school students across the state. The list includes classic texts such as Hamlet and Animal Farm, as well as excerpts from the Bible, including the story of Adam and Eve from the Book of Genesis.

Grade-Level Reading Lists

The list is divided by grade level, with kindergarten students reading books such as Goldilocks and the Three Bears and The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule. First-grade students will read excerpts from the Bible, including the story of Jonah and the whale, as well as classic tales like Jack and the Beanstalk and The Little Engine That Could.

The inclusion of biblical passages has sparked debate, with some arguing that it is an unconstitutional attempt to infuse Christianity into public schools. Supporters argue that understanding biblical references is part of a well-rounded education.

The list draws inspiration from a classical approach to education, which emphasizes reading books that have stood the test of time and focuses on building intellectual and moral character.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.