That a public school district — including local ones — might offer a course in the Bible in a secular fashion does not bother us if the course is elective and offered to the students who voluntarily want to sign up.

But a bill by State Rep. Warren Chisum, a Republican from Pampa, goes much too far in requiring every school district in the state to offer such a course.

It isn't the topic that gives us concern, but the fact that this would be another cost to school districts and another mandate from the state controlling what it is local school districts teach.

This is a decision that should be up to local folks, not mandated by the state. That way, local people can decide how to pay for it and whether or not it can fit into budget.

Not only that, but local folks can also determine the interest for such a class. Do we really want to mandate a class — that requires a certified teacher, of course — when two students are going to be taking the class?

Logic would say that we would not, but Chisum's bill would put all of the decision-making in the hands of the state.

Frankly, we're tired of that trend. We know state control is necessary in some cases because of standardized testing (something else we don't support), but it most certainly is not needed for an elective course.

This should be a matter that would be discussed in a school board election, not at the state legislature.

Some 25 school districts around the states already do offer classes on the Bible, which, since there are more than 1,000 school districts in Texas, tells us of the approximate demand for such courses. Not much.

If Marshall, Hallsville, Karnack or any of the other surrounding school districts wants a Bible class let them decide to do it and pay for it on their own.

Otherwise, let's not cede another sliver of control to the state. We have the feeling the state will not be happy until they have every last little piece.