Civic Affairs Committee Statement on GISD Board Decision Regarding Senate Bill 10
On September 1, 2025, Texas-SB10 went into effect, mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in Texas public school classrooms. It is important to note that SB10 does not apply to private schools. In support of this legislation, Senator Mayes Middleton donated posters for distribution. (Senator donates Ten Commandments posters to 13 school districts | Local News | The Daily News)
On October 22, the Galveston Independent School District (GISD) Board of Trustees voted 4–3 to postpone implementation of the mandate. The school board based their action on the injunction by U.S. Chief Judge Fred Biery for the U.S. District Court of the Western District of Texas. On August 20, 2025 he found that S.B. 10 likely violated the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause and Free Exercise Clause. This decision followed extensive deliberation and public engagement, as documented in the video recording of the Galveston ISD -Board Meeting 10-22-25, (These videos are segmented into three sections).
The Board’s decision was made amid significant public discourse regarding the comments from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who stated: “Schools not enjoined by ongoing litigation must abide by S.B. 10 and display the Ten Commandments. The woke radicals seeking to erase our nation’s history will be defeated. I will not back down from defending the virtues and values that built this country.” [Source: Attorney General Website] However, the legal interpretation and enforceability of these remarks remain uncertain.
We commend the GISD Board of Trustees for their thoughtful and principled leadership in addressing this complex issue. Their commitment to constitutional integrity and responsible governance reflects the highest standards of public service.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to the Galveston community and our GID members who participated in the public forum. Their respectful and articulate advocacy exemplifies the democratic process and reinforces the importance of safeguarding the constitutional rights of all individuals.
