While Bible-based lessons will not be mandatory, schools that incorporate them will receive additional funding. Boosters say the Bible is a core feature of American history, while critics point out the lessons will alienate students from other religions.

Public schools in Texas now have the option to use a new, state-written curriculum infused with Bible stories after the state’s school board voted in favor of the material on Friday.

The state-created and optional curriculum comes as many states are pushing biblical education in public schools