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: Discussion of religion in the classroom may alienate those who are being raised with orthodox religious faiths. It is equally important that teachers not appear to disapprove of faith, thereby alienating those who are raised with faith. If students object on religious grounds to portions of a textbook, may they be excused from studying the material? No. Public schools can require that all students use a prescribed set of textbooks if the books neither promote nor oppose any religious practice. The students must only be required to read and discuss the material and may not be required to perform or refrain from performing any act forbidden or mandated by their religion. Mere exposure to ideas that one finds objectionable on religious grounds does not rise to the level of a free exercise claim that compelled activity would. 11
Aren't these rules just promoting a "secular religion"? The state may not establish a "religion of secularism" in the sense that the state may not affirmatively oppose or show hostility to religion, thereby preferring those who believe in no religion over those who do believe. 12 That being said, the prohibition on teaching religion and religious activity ensures that the government does not advance or promote religious belief over non-religious belief or a particular religious belief over other religious beliefs.