Qualifications: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for this position?
SOCIAL STUDIES CURRICULUM: How should the K–12 social studies curriculum balance state, national, and world history to best prepare students to be responsible citizens in today’s world?
TEACHER SUPPORT: How can the SBOE strengthen teacher preparation, certification, and ongoing professional development to support high-quality instruction?
DIGITAL EDUCATION: How can the SBOE balance technology use with traditional instructional methods to best support student learning?
RELIGION IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS: Should Christianity or any other religious beliefs be incorporated into the public school curriculum? Explain your position.
Barbara Denson
I graduated Magna Cum Laude in Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh. I built a successful career as an engineer, later I focused on environmental science. I'm effective with varied viewpoints
The recently approved social studies framework has an excellent balance of each. Historical documents should be used to accurately teach core constitutional principles, civic duties, and global context. Texas history is American history, and teaching both thoroughly will build informed, responsible citizens who understand their state, their nation, and their place in the wider world.
The SBOE has strengthened instruction by encouraging high‑quality residencies. Data shows that 90% percent of candidates who complete Texas' high-touch, hands-on model return for a third year of teaching. The SBOE should review data to evaluate the results of teacher mentorship programs and instructional materials/resources to ensure every teacher has sufficient training, tools and resources.
The SBOE can blend technology with proven teaching by using digital tools and AI to enhance—not replace—traditional teaching. AI in particular offers exciting possibilities, but it must be used carefully and responsibly to protect students and keep learning grounded in strong instruction. I would never want a child’s education to rely solely on computers without guidance from a live adult teacher.
I believe that parents should guide their children’s moral and ethical upbringing according to their own values. However, Texas law says that there must be TEKS for religious literature that ensure school districts provide religious instruction—either integrated into other subjects or, where appropriate, as a standalone course—as a condition of accreditation.
OTHER ISSUES: What other issues do you believe will be the most pressing for the State Board of Education?
I believe that parents should guide their children’s moral and ethical upbringing according to their own values. However, Texas law says that there must be TEKS for religious literature that ensure school districts provide religious instruction—either integrated into other subjects or, where appropriate, as a standalone course—as a condition of accreditation.
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