Reporting from the Texas Freedom Network (TFN) sheds additional light on how the controversial Bluebonnet Learning curriculum, a state-developed set of instructional materials approved by the State Board of Education, is being positioned and used across Texas classrooms. TFN’s interactive dashboard and analysis (which tracks district adoption, religious content concerns, and parental feedback) underscores ongoing critiques from educators, families, and civil liberties advocates.
Bluebonnet Learning, developed by the Texas Education Agency under House Bill 1605, is intended to be a free instructional resource that covers reading, language arts, and math aligned to TEKS standards. While the state characterizes it as a tool to support academic basics, critics point out that the curriculum includes Bible-infused content and extensive religious references, particularly in early reading lessons, that go well beyond neutral historical or cultural context.
TFN’s data highlights that many districts are choosing selective adoption, often using the phonics and math modules but rejecting units with overt biblical narratives. In some districts, local educators and administrators have raised concerns that these religious elements blur the line between teaching about religion and teaching religion, potentially violating the constitutional separation of church and state.
Texas AFT has consistently expressed concerns about the process and substance of the SBOE’s decision to approve Bluebonnet Learning. We’ve noted that the materials, in their approved form, “infuse an inappropriate level of Christian and biblical content” and place teachers in a position that conflicts with ethical standards and the sanctity of the teaching profession meant to protect student participation regardless of religious background.
TFN’s reporting also reflects that public engagement on the materials has been strong: thousands of Texans submitted feedback during the review process, and advocacy groups, religious-freedom organizations, and parent coalitions testified at SBOE hearings arguing that public schools should remain secular spaces.
As this debate evolves, Texas AFT will continue to monitor district adoption patterns, instructional impact, and legal or policy challenges connected to Bluebonnet Learning, and share updates with members.