Why are copies of the Ten Commandments being displayed in classrooms?
Beginning this school year, posters of the Ten Commandments will be displayed in Eanes ISD classrooms in accordance with Senate Bill 10 (SB 10), passed by the 89th Texas Legislature. The law is codified in the Texas Education Code Section 1.0041 and requires Texas public school districts to accept donated displays that meet the law’s specifications and to post the state-prescribed text in each classroom.
As a Texas public school district, we are required to comply with applicable state and federal laws. SB 10 was enacted by the Texas Legislature and remains in effect.
Was SB 10 challenged in court?
Yes. A federal district court initially blocked enforcement of SB 10 for several school districts involved in a lawsuit. In April 2026, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reversed that decision and upheld the law, allowing it to be enforced. The plaintiffs have indicated that they intend to ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review the case. Unless a court issues a new ruling, SB 10 remains in effect, and the District is required to comply with it.
Will there be alternative religious iconography or tenants posted?
No. The District does not post religious iconography or tenants unless specified by Texas or federal law. We are displaying the Ten Commandments to comply with SB 10, which specifically requires this display and does not include corresponding displays from other religions. At this time, we will display only the donated posters required under the law.
Did the District purchase or create the posters?
No. An individual who is not affiliated with Eanes ISD contacted each campus principal to ask for the number of classrooms at that campus. Subsequently, that individual donated posters for each classroom on all of our campuses. The donated posters meet the requirements established by SB 10. The District is displaying the posters to comply with state law.
Where are the Ten Commandments displayed?
If a Texas public school district receives donated posters, the law requires districts to display a state-prescribed version of the Ten Commandments in every classroom “in a conspicuous place.” Eanes ISD maintenance and operations staff began installing the posters this summer in similar placements throughout the campuses.
How does the District support students and families of different beliefs?
Regardless of this or any other legislation, the District remains committed to providing a safe and welcoming learning environment for every student. We respect the diverse religious beliefs, cultural traditions and personal perspectives represented in our schools, including those of students and families who do not hold religious beliefs.
The District always works with individual students who request various religious accommodations on a regular basis. This ongoing practice will not change.
Where can families read the law and current state guidance?
Families may review the full text of Senate Bill 10 on the Texas Legislature Online website. Current implementation information is available in the Texas Education Agency’s 89th Legislature resources, including frequently asked questions about SB 10.
How will teachers respond when students ask questions about the poster?
Staff has been instructed to tell students that the poster is up because of a new Texas law. If specific questions are asked about the poster’s content, staff will contact the student’s parents to let them know of their question. Staff will not respond with substantive answers about the Ten Commandments.
How will the school/district respond if a student feels uncomfortable, excluded, or targeted?
If a student feels uncomfortable, excluded, or targeted, we encourage the student or family to contact a teacher, counselor or school administrator. Staff will listen and provide the appropriate support and respond in accordance with district policies. The District does not tolerate bullying or harassment based on a student’s religious belief or nonbelief. Our commitment to supporting the well-being and belonging of every student remains unchanged.
Who should families contact with questions or feedback?
Because SB 10 was enacted by the 89th Texas Legislature, families who wish to share feedback about the law are encouraged to contact their elected state representatives.
What has been communicated by the district?
As the appeal moved through the courts last year, Eanes ISD updated the Legislative Updates page on its website. The District sent a message to staff on July 29 with information about the posters being installed in classrooms; the District sent a message to parents on Aug. 5, providing information on the District’s compliance with the law.