1. Religion in the Public Schools

2. Extremes Are Not Consistent With the Law
Promotion of religion is not allowed
Schools are not religion-free zones
May not inculcate religion
May not inhibit religion

3. Why we do teach about religion?
Complete education
Bible is literature
Omission is dangerous
Value religious liberty
To study religion:
is constitutional
is necessary
it must be taught objectively and neutrally

4. How we teach about religion?
academic approach - not devotional
awareness not acceptance
study about religion not the practice of
exposure not imposition
educate - not promote or denigrate
inform not conform
discussions free from advocacy
use attributive statements like “most Buddhists believe” - “according to”

5. How much to teach?
Let the grade level and academic requirements of the course guide this decision.
Elementary students generally introduced to the basic ideas and practices of the world’s major religions (core beliefs, symbols, figures, events)
Careful about guest speakers - must be scholarly and know guidelines

6. Religious Holidays Teaching about religious holidays is permissible
how and when celebrated
origins and histories
generally agreed upon meanings
Celebrating religious holidays is not permissible
Religious symbols may be used as examples on a temporary basis only

7. Religion and Character Ed
Teachers must be neutral concerning religion, among religions, between religion and non-religion
Teachers do not have to be neutral concerning civic virtue and moral character
The morals of many Americans are shaped by their religion

8. Teachers’ Rights
Cannot pray with or in the presence of students during the school day - unless away from students or unless silently
Can wear non-obtrusive jewelry, but not proselytizing messages
When asked by a student, teachers may:
not answer - say it would be inappropriate
answer straightforwardly and succinctly

9. Students’ Rights
Can pray individually or in groups so long as not disruptive
Can read religious texts, say grace before meals, pray before tests, and discuss religion with willing listeners
Can pray quietly in class except when required to be involved in activity
May express beliefs in assignments and will be judged academically

10. Students’ Rights cont’d
Must be excused from conversations that make student or parent uncomfortable
Can be granted special requests, but teachers cannot monitor these requests
May form religious clubs if school has secular clubs. Outsiders should not be integral in these clubs. Same media rights.
May distribute religious literature on same terms as secular literature.

11. Final Thought. . .
Religious issues can be complicated, if a question arises regarding a religious issue in your classroom you should contact your building level principal for clarification.