Policy 6141.2 - Recognition of Religious Beliefs & Customs

Recognition of Religious Beliefs and Customs

The Board of Education recognizes that students' education would be incomplete without an understanding of the role of religion in society. As appropriate for a particular course, teachers may objectively discuss the influences of various religions, using religious works and symbols to illustrate their relationship with culture, literature, or the arts.

In order to respect each student's individual right to freedom of religious practice, religious indoctrination is clearly forbidden in the public schools. Instruction about religion shall not promote or denigrate the beliefs or customs of any particular religion or sect, nor should a preference be shown for one religious’ viewpoint over another. Staff members shall be highly sensitive to their obligation not to interfere with the religious development of any student in whatever tradition the student embraces.

Staff shall not endorse, encourage, or solicit religious or anti-religious expression or activities among students during class time. As part of their official duties, staff shall not lead students in prayer or other religious activities. However, staff shall not prohibit or discourage any student from praying or otherwise expressing his/her religious belief as long as this does not disrupt the classroom.

Students may express their beliefs about religion in their homework, artwork and other class work if the expression is germane to the assignment. Such work shall be judged by ordinary academic standards.

While teaching about religious holidays is a permissible part of the educational program, celebrating religious holidays is not allowed in the public schools. School-sponsored programs shall not be, nor have the effect of being, religiously oriented or a religious celebration. School and classroom decorations may express seasonal themes that are not religious in nature.

Music, art, literature, or drama programs having religious themes are permitted as part of the curriculum for school-sponsored activities and programs if presented in an objective manner and as a traditional part of the cultural and religious heritage. The use of religious symbols that are part of a religious holiday is permitted as a teaching aid or resource provided that such symbols are displayed as an example of cultural and religious heritage of the holiday and are temporary in nature.

Rule 6141.2

Adopted: 12/08/1998

Last Revised: 10/17/2023

Last Reviewed: 10/17/2023

1. The principal or designee shall ensure that school-sponsored programs are presented in an objective manner, consistent with Board policy
    
2. The principal or designee shall be kept informed of the program's development
    
3. Program or exhibit planners shall take into consideration the diverse religious faiths represented in the community, student body and staff

1. The student will be excused from attending the class while that topic is under study with no penalty of any kind
    
2. The students will attend the class but no examination about the topic will be required of the students. No penalty for not taking the examination will be assessed
    
3. The student may be given an alternative assignment or task