Millions of families from different religious backgrounds trust their children’s education to our public schools. Employees need to be fully informed about constitutional and educational principles to understand the role of religion in public education. According to religious scholars, the phrase “separation of church and state” was originally coined by Baptists advocating for religious toleration in Virginia, where the official state religion was then Anglican (Episcopalian). Baptists believed government restrictions on religion were unjustified. James Madison and Thomas Jefferson reportedly supported their cause. During the holiday season, taxpayer-funded schools often face the “December Dilemma.” Confusion arises during this time because the issue of religious expression in public schools becomes more prominent in some situations. Questions about using religious symbols, sacred music, and specific decorations in the classroom bring the issue of “separation of church and state” to the forefront for students, parents, faculty, staff, administrators, and community members.
The preamble in the Act Establishing Religious Freedom in Virginia (1786) affirms that “the Author of our Religion gave us our ‘free will.’” and that He “chose not to propagate it by coercions.” This legislation certainly did not diminish religious influence on government, as it also imposed strict penalties for conducting business on the Sabbath. Legal experts and scholars argue that the Constitution does not prohibit public displays of faith. At the time of the Constitution’s ratification, the early Republic even embraced public worship. Church services were held in the U.S. Capitol and Treasury buildings every Sunday. Many federal buildings feature imagery that remains distinctly biblical. So, where does this leave our government-funded public schools?
Academics and lawyers advise that public schools should accommodate diverse faiths during holiday celebrations. Students cannot be forced to participate in events that conflict with their religious beliefs. Legal experts recommend various accommodations, such as different customs, songs, and traditional foods at parties or other in-school activities. However, assemblies mainly focused on religious activities might raise constitutional issues. The U.S. Supreme Court’s consensus on teaching about religion in public schools is based on three main principles: 1) The court has stated that studying religion in public schools is constitutional. 2) Including religion in education is vital for understanding history and cultures. 3) Religions must be taught in an objective and neutral manner.
The court has determined that schools may celebrate the holidays and create displays as long as they are within “the context of the Christmas Season,” and the religious component of their display does not dominate the secular status in our society. Lynch v. Donnelly, 465. U.S. 668, 679, and 691 (1984). Under this ruling, a Christmas tree would be appropriate, while a cross or a nativity scene would not. Crosses and nativity scenes are religious symbols that have not gained the same secular status in our society as a Christmas tree. Religious icons present a constitutional dilemma when visible in public displays. Even the most experienced school officials struggle with balancing the legal conditions, past practices, and community expectations.
The government should strive to recognize the role of religion in American society and avoid encouraging particular religious beliefs. The framers held that church and state are distinct, and the federal government should not elevate one denomination over others. Nor can the government or the citizenry usurp divine authority by joining politics with the church. Faith should remain a personal matter, not a civil contract tainted by politics. Our founders wrote about the importance of religion and how freedom of religion is vital. It is an honor to serve as your County Superintendent of Schools.
