Court Backs Ten Commandments in Texas Schools

A federal appeals court upholds Texas law requiring Ten Commandments displays in public schools.

Appeals Court Upholds Ten Commandments Display in Texas Schools DALLAS (AP) — Texas can require the Ten Commandments to be displayed in public schools, a U.S. appeals court ruled Tuesday in a closely divided 9-8 decision. The ruling by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals marks a victory for conservatives who have long sought to expand the role of religion in classrooms. The court rejected arguments from opponents who said the law amounts to religious indoctrination, stating that no student is required to recite or believe the Commandments. Civil liberties groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, said they plan to appeal the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing it violates the First Amendment’s separation of church and state.

Ongoing Legal and Political Battles Over Religion in Schools The ruling is part of a broader debate in Texas over religion in education. In 2024, the state approved an optional Bible-based curriculum for elementary schools, and another proposal could soon add Bible stories to required reading lists. The decision overturns a lower court ruling that had blocked several school districts from displaying the Ten Commandments. The law, signed by Governor Greg Abbott, took effect in September and represents one of the largest efforts nationwide to introduce religious displays in public schools. The mandate has sparked debate across Texas, affecting school board discussions and prompting districts to consider how to address student questions.

Broader Impact and Reactions Across States Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton praised the ruling as a victory for the state’s values, emphasizing the historical influence of the Ten Commandments. Similar legal efforts are underway in other states, including Louisiana and Alabama, where lawmakers have passed or supported comparable measures. Supporters, including Republican leaders such as Donald Trump, argue that such displays reflect cultural and historical traditions. Critics, however, warn that the decision undermines constitutional protections. In dissent, Judge Stephen A. Higginson argued that the Constitution was designed to prevent government-imposed religion, cautioning against mandating specific religious texts in classrooms. The Texas law requires the displays to be clearly visible and meet specific size and formatting standards.