Texas Education Board Approves Controversial Reading List

The list includes biblical material, drawing criticism over lack of diversity and religious representation

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:56pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen grid of classic book spines in neon shades of pink, blue, and green, conceptually representing the debate over representation and inclusivity in the Texas public school curriculum.A vibrant pop art interpretation of the diverse literary works at the heart of the Texas reading list controversy.Round Rock Today

The Texas State Board of Education has given preliminary approval to a mandatory reading list for public schools that will be implemented starting in 2030. The list, which was criticized for its emphasis on Christian and biblical material and lack of diversity, was pared down from an initial 300 books to around 200. While supporters argue the biblical content will help students understand U.S. history, critics say the list is 'a lawsuit waiting to happen' and fails to reflect the needs and experiences of students.

Why it matters

The reading list decision is part of a broader debate in Texas over the role of religion and conservative values in public education. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions around curriculum, representation, and the separation of church and state in the state's schools.

The details

The original list included both classic literature and biblical material such as 'The Parable of the Prodigal Son' and 'The Road to Damascus.' Critics raised concerns about the lack of religious diversity, as well as the underrepresentation of women, Hispanic, and Black authors. The revised list, proposed by Republican member Keven Ellis, cut about 100 readings, including works by Mary Shelley and Frederick Douglass, though it still includes Bible texts. Educators argued the list was too long for teachers to reasonably cover in a school year and called for more input from teachers in its development.

  • The Texas State Board of Education gave preliminary approval to the reading list on April 10, 2026.
  • The board will have a chance to revise the list ahead of a final approval set for June 2026.
  • A 2023 state law required the Texas Education Agency to design the list of reading materials for public K-12 students.

The players

Keven Ellis

Republican member of the Texas State Board of Education who proposed the revised reading list.

Markesha Tisby

President of the Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts, who criticized the reading list for being developed without sufficient teacher input.

Sumya Paruchuri

A recent graduate of the Texas public school system who expressed concerns about the reading list's attempt to 'standardize readings' being 'unhelpful and counterproductive.'

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What they’re saying

“'There are other states, many other states, who have recommended reading lists. To my knowledge, there is not one that will have a required reading list as robust as this, that will be common for every student across the state.'”

— Keven Ellis, Republican member, Texas State Board of Education

“'I believe that an acceptable list would be one that's created with teacher expertise, leaning on the strengths of everyone involved in this work. There's still time. There's no prize for making this decision quickly. We have time to build something great for our Texas students, and they deserve it.'”

— Markesha Tisby, President, Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts

“'As a recent graduate of the Texas public school system, I care deeply about the curriculum my friends and family will be taught. The required reading list's attempt to standardize readings is unhelpful and counterproductive to the real needs of students and educators.'”

— Sumya Paruchuri

What’s next

The Texas State Board of Education will have opportunities to suggest changes and offer feedback on the revised reading list on Friday and before the final vote in June 2026.

The takeaway

The controversy over the Texas reading list highlights the ongoing debate around the role of religion, diversity, and teacher input in public school curriculum. As the state moves forward with this decision, it will need to balance concerns over academic freedom, representation, and the separation of church and state.