Chisum ISD board adopts resolution declining to implement SB 11 prayer/reading policy

The Chisum Independent School District Board of Trustees voted Feb. 12 to adopt a resolution declining to adopt the policy set out in Section 25.0823 of the Texas Education Code concerning a period of prayer and reading of the Bible or other religious text.

The resolution text adopted by the board states: "The Board of Trustees declines to adopt the policy set forth in Section 25.0823, Education Code, relating to a period of prayer and reading of the Bible or other religious text." The motion to approve the resolution was moved by Trustee Larry Rickman and seconded by Trustee Matt Patterson; the minutes record four votes in favor (Trustees Travis Ball, Judd Oats, Matt Patterson and Larry Rickman) and three trustees absent.

Board minutes show the resolution was considered as part of regular business and recorded as passed on Feb. 12, 2026. The document cites Senate Bill No. 11 and Section 25.0823, Education Code, and explains the board's stated reasons focused on "the education interests of students" and "the time necessary for educators to prepare for, and instruct students in, curriculum courses." No public comment on the resolution is recorded in the minutes.

The adopted resolution was signed and entered into the official minutes. The board did not record any votes against or abstentions; three trustees — James Weems, Craig Burns and Dashielle Floyd — were marked absent for the vote. The board will proceed with district operations under that resolution until and unless it revisits the question at a future meeting.