Texas passed Senate Bill 10, a law mandating that public school classrooms display the Ten Commandments, which went into effect in September 2025. However, its implementation is currently blocked by a federal judge’s preliminary injunction and lawsuits filed by groups like the ACLU, who argue it violates the First Amendment’s establishment clause. Attorney General Ken Paxton has instructed schools to comply while also suing one district for not doing so. Lawsuits have been filed by various groups, including families from different religious backgrounds, arguing the law is unconstitutional and a violation of the First Amendment.
The Galveston ISD Board heard community input and finds state law currently conflicts with longstanding federal law and existing interpretations of the Constitution regarding the posting of the 10 Commandments in public school classrooms. We are disappointed we must use district resources to defend this local decision against state action. The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit plans to hear this case in January. Until then, Galveston ISD will continue to seek legal counsel and will navigate next steps in light of other ongoing litigation.
Galveston ISD remains committed to maintaining the safety and well-being of every student in our care. So for now, the Board is not reversing its current course of action.
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