Pasadena ISD board adopts alternative resolution rather than adopting Senate Bill 11 language
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Summary
After public comment and trustee discussion noting no additional funding for SB 11, the district administration recommended an alternative approach; the board voted to carry the motion.
Trustees considered adoption of a board resolution regarding Senate Bill 11, which would prescribe a daily period for prayer or reading of religious texts in schools. Trustee Marshall Kendrick moved the item and Trustee Nelda Sullivan seconded. During discussion trustees noted SB 11 provides no additional funding to districts and that existing local practices (a morning moment of silence and other opportunities) allow students to pray or observe their faith.
Superintendent/Doctor Lopez and administration recommended adopting an "alternative resolution" rather than the bill’s prescriptive approach, saying a single, mandated time could unintentionally limit student needs and that flexibility better preserves inclusive practices. The board voted in favor and the motion carried.
Public comment before the vote included Bridal Quiros, who urged trustees to oppose adoption of SB 11 on logistical and equity grounds, warning of staff burden, permission-slip tracking and peer pressure on nonparticipating students. The transcript records debate among trustees about balancing religious expression with flexibility; the board’s vote authorized the district recommendation rather than formal adoption of the bill language that night.