MINGO COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Delegate Henry C. Dillon is voicing strong support for a Mingo County teacher’s effort to introduce a Bible-based elective course in local schools.
Dillon, a Republican representing District 29, said he endorses a petition started by Eric Starr, a social studies teacher at Tug Valley High School.
Starr personally gathered signatures door-to-door before presenting the proposal to the Mingo County Board of Education on Nov. 18.
The petition calls for a non-evangelizing Bible elective that would examine the text from historical, literary, and cultural perspectives.
Supporters say the course would be voluntary, protect students’ rights, and avoid proselytizing while offering insight into a work that has shaped Western society.
Dillon said the community has already shown support for faith-related displays, pointing to earlier legislation allowing “In God We Trust” posters in public schools.
“Earlier this year, we passed legislation enabling the placement of ‘In God We Trust’ posters in public schools, and the response from parents has been overwhelmingly positive,” he said.
He added that declining public school enrollment should cause education leaders to consider whether schools are reflecting the values of the families they serve.
“West Virginians understand that the Holy Bible is foundational to our society, and they want their children to have the opportunity to build their lives on that solid foundation,” Dillon said.
The delegate also praised Starr’s approach in gathering community support.
“I commend Mr. Starr for his hands-on approach to gathering support—it’s a testament to the passion our educators and families hold for enriching children’s education,” he said. “This isn’t about mandating beliefs; it’s about empowering students with knowledge of a foundational text that has shaped Western civilization.”
Dillon said a Bible elective aligns with broader goals for education in the state.
“The role of education in a republic like ours is to equip our children with the knowledge of truth, the development of virtue, and the soundness of judgment to actively engage in self-government and fulfill their God-given purpose on Earth,” he said. “Allowing students to engage directly with the most influential and consequential book in human history—the same book most frequently cited by America’s founders—will only lead to a better future for our state and nation.”
Dillon previously sponsored HJR 31 in the 2025 regular session, a resolution recognizing the Holy Bible as a foundational text for government and society. He said he plans to introduce similar legislation again during the 2026 session.
