Most San Antonio school districts are opting not to adopt a daily time for prayer in schools, as permitted under a new state law. Senate Bill 11, passed last year, gives school districts the option to adopt a “period of prayer and reading of the Bible or other religious text in public schools,” with parental consent required.
Opposition to the Bill
Several San Antonio-area school districts are choosing not to enforce SB 11, citing potential legal challenges from parents and community members who may object to the regulation of religion. Districts also express concern over the potential burden on teachers and administration. Texas law already allows students to pray or meditate individually during school hours, provided it doesn’t disrupt the school day.
The following districts have rejected adopting a period of prayer or Bible reading: San Antonio Independent School District, North East ISD, Alamo Heights ISD, Harlandale ISD, Southwest ISD, Southside ISD, Somerset ISD, East Central ISD, Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD, Medina Valley ISD and Lackland ISD.
Southwest ISD staff considered potential benefits, such as providing support for students seeking “spiritual or mental health” assistance, but ultimately weighed them against potential drawbacks, including increased liability for the district.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The decision comes as the state faces a lawsuit from families across Texas, including one in the Alamo Heights area, seeking to block the implementation of Senate Bill 10, which requires the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms. Arguments in the Texas and Louisiana cases were heard by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in January.
Attorney General Ken Paxton encouraged school districts in September to implement dedicated prayer time, stating, “In Texas classrooms, we want the Word of God opened, the Ten Commandments displayed, and prayers lifted up.” The ACLU of Texas, however, has urged districts to vote against allowing daily prayer periods.
Upcoming Votes
Several school districts still have upcoming votes on whether to adopt SB 11. Edgewood ISD will vote on Feb. 23, Judson ISD on Feb. 26, Northside ISD on Feb. 26 and South San Antonio ISD on Feb. 23.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Senate Bill 11 allow?
Senate Bill 11 gives school districts the option to adopt a “period of prayer and reading of the Bible or other religious text in public schools,” requiring parental consent.
Which districts have already rejected the bill?
San Antonio Independent School District, North East ISD, Alamo Heights ISD, Harlandale ISD, Southwest ISD, Southside ISD, Somerset ISD, East Central ISD, Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD, Medina Valley ISD and Lackland ISD have all rejected adopting a period of prayer or Bible reading.
Is prayer already allowed in schools?
Yes, Texas education code already gives students the right to individually pray or meditate in school, as long as it’s not disrupting the school day.
As school boards prepare to vote, how will the balance between religious expression and legal considerations ultimately shape the educational landscape in San Antonio?
Worth a look