Texas board approves statewide social studies overhaul

The Republican-majority Texas State Board of Education approved revised high school social studies standards covering U.S. history, government and world geography, despite extensive opposition from public commenters and Democratic board members. Critics, including many Muslim speakers, objected to language emphasizing early Islam’s military campaigns, slavery and female captives, as well as a requirement that students describe the Sept. 11 attacks as motivated by “radical Islam.” The board rejected efforts to soften some wording, while supporters said the changes provide a more complete or historically accurate account. The standards also include instruction on slavery, the Civil Rights movement and Black Americans’ contributions, alongside topics such as voting identification requirements, Israel’s establishment and critiques of Lyndon B. Johnson’s Great Society. The revised lesson plans are expected to enter Texas classrooms beginning in the 2030-31 school year.