Religion in Schools

Religion in Schools has been a debate in America for years. As a Christian, I find it distressing that there is separation between church and state in this country. God is the creator of all things; it is impossible to take him out of any equation.

I find it disheartening that in 2009, federal judge Robert Gentleman of Illinois ruled against the “moment of silence” state law. Every morning when I rise from bed, I reflect and thank God for waking me up. Once I am in the car, headed to work, I pray once again for traveling grace and speak to God about the day that is at hand. These moments alone with God are important to me because they set the pace of my day. I pray for wisdom in the decisions I will make at work and in class. I also prioritize my agenda for the day.

I believe having a “moment of silence” at the beginning of the day, would be beneficial to students and teachers. Though I am a firm believer in Christ, I understand that there are many religions and beliefs. The “moment” allows an individual to speak to their “God” or idol, whoever it may be. Even those that do not believe in a “higher power”, such as atheists, can use this time to just breathe, reflect and mentally prepare themselves for assignments, exams and lectures that are at hand for the rest of the day.

“Defenders of the law argue it is a student's personal choice whether to pray or reflect more generally; therefore, proponents say, the law does not force religion on public school children.”

 I strongly agree with this statement. A “moment of silence” does not have to be seen as religious. Take a part and exam each word and there is no religious connotation.  “Moment” is another word for minute or instant. Merriam-Webster defines silence as the “forbearance from speech or noise.” Therefore, it is unnecessary to associate a “moment of silence” with religion and deem partaking it one at public schools as unconstitutional.

There was discussion at the Board of Education meeting in Texas regarding science curriculum.

Because of my Christianity, one can assume that I do not believe in the scientific theory of evolution. This assumption would be correct. Teachers should expect to be questioned by students about creationism. When these discussions and questions arise, what is the appropriate response for teachers? If religion can not be discussed in public schools then these questions have to be ignored, students will be respond well to that solution!

In conclusion, I feel that it is IMPOSSIBLE to take religion completely not of pubic schools because there are religious people who express themselves in these public schools.



Reference:

Calefati, Jessica. "Religion in Schools Debate Heats Up." Web. 29 Sep. 2011. <https://elearn.mtsu.edu/d2l/lms/content/viewer/main_frame.d2l?ou=2975445&tId=19133302>.