On February 20th, the Center for Public History is supporting a guest speaker event, featuring Southern Methodist University in Dallas's Dr.  Mark Chancey, as he discusses new Texas policy on the Bible in public schools. 

This event will be put on by the Department of Religious Studies and is co-sponsored by the Center for Public History, College of Education, the Jewish Studies Program, and the Department of Political Science.

About the Event: Texas has found a new way to teach Bible stories to its youngest public school students-- the Bluebonnet English Language Arts lessons, narrowly approved by the State Board of Education in November 2024. Bluebonnet supporters insist that the lessons will simply help students better understand history, literature, and the arts. But lessons often go beyond merely teaching about religion and instead privilege particular religious viewpoints. Come discover what five-year olds and fifth-graders will learn about the Bible and about religion more broadly and decide for yourself whether these lessons promote religious literacy or play religious favorites.

The talk will be held in the Bates Law building, at 6:00 p.m., in room 240. Please note that there is convient parking near the Law School building, which should allow for easy access for those coming from off campus.

If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Caryn Tamber-Rosenau at cmtamber@central.uh.edu.