Is it okay, as long as they are not pushing their religion on other people, and not trying to make it a school policy? Even if others would not like to see them praying, would it still be within their rights? Would something similarly hold for homosexual students who want to show some sort of support or unity for each other? For atheist students? It seems to me that students already form so many different types of cliques. Which should be allowed and which prohibited.
2007-07-05 06:48:28 · 11 answers · asked by ignoramus_the_great 7 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
This here is what the rule is as written by the Department of Education.
"As a condition of receiving funds under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, an LEA must certify in writing to its SEA that it has no policy that prevents, or otherwise denies participation in, constitutionally protected prayer in public schools as set forth in this guidance.
The guidance clarifies the rights of students to pray in public schools. As stated in the guidance, ``* * * the First Amendment forbids religious activity that is sponsored by the government but protects religious activity that is initiated by private individuals'' such as students. Therefore, ``[a]mong other things, students may read their Bibles or other scriptures, say grace before meals, and pray or study religious materials with fellow students during recess, the lunch hour, or other non instructional time to the same extent that they may engage in nonreligious activities.'' Public schools should not be hostile to the religious rights of their students and their families.
At the same time, school officials may not ``compel students to participate in prayer or other religious activities.'' Nor may teachers, school administrators, and other school employees, when acting in their official capacities as representatives of the State, encourage or discourage prayer or actively participate in those activities with students."
It's a fair law.
2007-07-05 07:30:45 · answer #1 · answered by Jess H 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, they are already allowed to do this. There is a moment of silent reflection every morning. Everyone stand still and "reflect on the day."
Some of my 3rd students bow their head at the lunch table. Others don't. No one say a thing one way or the other.
If it offends you to see someone with his or head bowed, don't look.
Nothing is mandatory other than respecting others' beliefs.
2007-07-05 13:54:03 · answer #2 · answered by batgirl2good 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
In America we either have the freedom of assembly or we don't.
As long as a group is gathered for their own support and benefit, I see nothing wrong, even though I may not agree with their principles.
However is it is something that threatens another, such as a gangs of punks then it must be broken up and dispersed.
2007-07-05 13:55:37 · answer #3 · answered by drg5609 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
They are allowed to do this already, and they should be. They're not hurting anybody or violating any laws. If they try to do it during class time, or try to make others do it with them, or to indoctrinate others, that would be wrong. But praying by themselves on their on time is fine.
2007-07-05 13:53:41 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
A personal, private prayer that is between you and your god is perfectly fine. If it's between a group and your god that is perfectly fine as well.
At my HS we had religious clubs as well as one in support of homosexuality. The president, and former class mate of mine got a lawyer involved when faculty was not going to allow the club to exist.
2007-07-05 13:55:21 · answer #5 · answered by Blanca 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Yes private prayer should be allowed.
It would be wonderful if young homosexuals could teach tolerance to their peers.
All children should be made aware of options,such as atheism.
2007-07-05 13:54:09 · answer #6 · answered by Gorgeoustxwoman2013 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
A moment of silence is fine. Calling it prayer or telling others you are praying is wrong.
What you do yourself and not make it public is fine. Just keep endorsed prayer out of schools.
There are religious schools for those who insist in prayer in school.
2007-07-05 13:55:01 · answer #7 · answered by lynda_at_work 2 · 2⤊ 3⤋
Of course it should be allowed. Lunch is a perfectly appropriate time to chat with invisible friends.
2007-07-05 13:56:38 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 3⤋
It is allowed already and in my opinion is perfectly fine.
2007-07-05 14:03:17 · answer #9 · answered by sparkles9 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
So long as they are not provided with space that would otherwise be used by normal students.
2007-07-05 14:03:11 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋