Bandera Independent School District is taking steps to comply with a new state law that mandates the posting of the Ten Commandments in every Texas public school classroom by the start of the upcoming school year.
Superintendent Gary Bitzkie confirmed BISD is currently reviewing cost and production options to meet the requirements outlined in Senate Bill 10, signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott earlier this summer.
“The new law requires the Ten Commandments to be posted in Texas classrooms,” Bitzkie said. “The posting must be a durable poster or a framed copy, must be at least 16x20 inches in size, and legible from anywhere in the classroom.”
Bitzkie said the district’s central office is conducting a cost analysis to determine whether it will purchase pre-made posters or print them internally. The BISD Technology Department is preparing campus poster- making equipment in the event the district produces the materials in-house.
The posters must use the exact wording specified in the law and be free of any additional text or commentary. If purchased, delivery is expected no later than July 28. If created internally, campus printers will use durable materials to ensure the signs meet the legal requirements.
Principals are expected to begin distributing the posters to teachers the week of July 28 through Aug. 1, ahead of the first day of school on Aug. 4. BISD said the only possible delays would be related to material shortages, shipping issues, or a legal challenge that places Senate Bill 10 on hold.
The law has drawn national attention and legal scrutiny. While its supporters argue the Ten Commandments are foundational to American history and morality, critics say the mandate violates the separation of church and state and could alienate students of different faiths or no faith at all.
Texas is one of several states pushing to increase the visibility of religion in public schools. In addition to this requirement, the state has previously passed laws allowing donated “In God We Trust” signs in classrooms and approved teaching materials with religious content.
Despite growing opposition from civil liberties groups and education advocates, the law passed with strong support in both chambers of the Texas Legislature. Under the bill, the state has pledged to cover legal costs for school districts facing lawsuits related to the display.
For now, Bandera ISD is focused on compliance.
“Ultimately, we are committed to following state law,” Bitzkie said, “and ensuring the required materials are in place by the first day of school.”
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