Local News
Parents draw line with Bible course
Board continues research of elective offerings
In addition to approving Huntsville Independent School District’s performance objectives, trustees considered Thursday approval for a new Bible history course for high school students and to authorize a local Realtor to help sell the old Huntsville High School building.
Trustees also heard updates on the district’s health and wellness policy.
HHS Principal Mike Lamb proposed the addition of an elective course focusing on the historical and literary perspectives of the Bible.
Lamb was seeking the approval from the board to move forward developing the course’s curriculum.
“This is not a religion course,” he said. “We can’t teach religion or a comparative religion course. Even though the Bible is closely associated with religion, we are not teaching religion.”
The course will be offered as an elective, meaning students have the choice whether or not they choose to enroll in the class.
HHS currently has faculty trained in history to teach the class from the historical standpoint and funding the course would not cost the district.
Parent Tamera Chasteen addressed the board about her concerns of the Bible history course.
Chasteen reported 25 school districts across the state had similar courses, but only three met the guidelines that included no ideology associated with the Bible.
“I think there are many ways to meet the needs of Bible study in Huntsville,” she said. “I don’t think we lack the opportunity for our young people to study the Bible if they choose to do so, without implementing it as part of the curriculum at the high school.”
Trustees approved continuing research of curriculum for the proposed new elective.
The board selected Homeland Properties, based on the proposals received, to sell the old high school building, located on University Avenue across from Mance Park Middle School.
HISD Athletic Director Mike Allen presented the update of the district’s health and wellness policy.
The district must comply with Texas Department of Agriculture nutritional guidelines for on-campus fundraisers and school parties.
“This is a work in progress,” he said. “There are things that we’ve been doing for a long period of time, and then all of a sudden, one day, you are told that you can’t do this.”
In addition, the district needs to promote healthy eating choices.
Vending machine foods at the high school and middle school have been modified to help provide students with healthier choices.
Drinks containing sugar and donuts have been eliminated from the machines. The machines now have flavored water and granola bars.
Allen also recognized the HHS volleyball team for its achievements in academics and competition during the season.
November educator of the month Kristen Mishler teaches math at Huntsville Transitional Discipline Academy.
November employee of the month Shelia Simmons was unable to attend the meeting. She is the custodial services supervisor.
The next regular school board meeting is scheduled for Dec. 11 at the Hawkins Administration Building.
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