Title: Religion in Public School Curriculum | Religion in Public Schools | ADL
Headings: Religion in the Curriculum
Religion in the Curriculum
SPECIFIC ISSUES & QUESTIONS
What distinguishes "teaching religion" from "teaching about religion"?
May schools teach the Bible as literature?
May schools teach secular values which coincide with religious values?
What are some concerns that arise regarding "teaching about religion" in public schools?
If students object on religious grounds to portions of a textbook, may they be excused from studying the material?
Aren't these rules just promoting a "secular religion"?
What happens when a student responds to a secular assignment with religious expression?
SAMPLE SCENARIOS & SITUATIONS
Sixth-grader Asks Teacher about Religious Beliefs of Historical Groups
How should Mr. Clark answer Talia's question on the settlers?
Parent of Sixth-grader Objects to Reading Assignment on Religious Grounds
Should Joe be exempted from using the standard reader?
Jewish Student Asked to Explain Hanukkah to Class
Should Mr. Parker have asked the student to explain Hanukkah? Should he have asked her mother?
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Content: Religion in Public School Curriculum | Religion in Public Schools | ADL
Anti-Bias Education
Religious Freedom
Religion in the Curriculum
For Educators
Public schools may not teach religion, although teaching about religion in a secular context is permitted. 1 The Bible may be taught in a school, but only for its historical, cultural or literary value and never in a devotional, celebratory or doctrinal manner, or in such a way that encourages acceptance of the Bible as a religious document. 2
SPECIFIC ISSUES & QUESTIONS
What distinguishes "teaching religion" from "teaching about religion"? Religion may be presented as part of a secular educational program. Programs that "teach about religion" are geared toward teaching students about the role of religion in the historical, cultural, literary and social development of the United States and other nations. These programs should instill understanding, tolerance and respect for a pluralistic society. When discussing religion in this context, religion must be discussed in a neutral, objective, balanced and factual manner. Such programs should educate students about the principle of religious liberty as one of the fundamental elements of freedom and democracy in the United States. "Teaching religion" amounts to religious indoctrination or practice and is clearly prohibited in public schools. A public school curriculum may not be devotional or doctrinal.