|
A great deal of professional judgment is needed to ensure that District policy complies with constitutional and legal
safeguards for the practice of religion. A major guideline to follow is a four-part test. Each activity which may
appear to be of a religious nature or use materials, rituals, or symbols which may be otherwise associated with a
religion must meet all four (4) of the following conditions:
A. Does it serve the educational purpose and goals of the District?
B. Is the purpose of the activity secular?
C. Will its effect neither advance nor inhibit a religion?
D. Will it avoid excessive entanglements between the school and a religion?
This guideline applies to any and all activities and programs at all levels, particularly those that take place at
traditional holiday seasons such as Christmas and Easter.
Prior to planning or conducting an activity, it would be well to review the District's two (2) policies dealing with
religious matters -- Policy 2270 and Policy 8800. If a teacher has any question about the propriety of the activity,
s/he should consult with the principal prior to making a decision.
Approved/Adopted: July 13, 2009 |
 |
|
|
|
