EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
Series 600
Policy Title: Teaching About Religion
Code No.: 619
Since the contribution of religions to civilization is one of the crucial keys to understanding human history and development, the study of religious history and traditions should be part of the school curriculum, and can play a vital role in enhancing an understanding among people of different religious backgrounds and beliefs. Such study should give neither preferential nor derogatory treatment to any single religion or to religion in general, and should not be introduced or utilized for devotional purposes. Furthermore, no religious belief or nonbelief should be promoted by the school district or its employees.
Criteria used to guide academic inquiry in the study of religion should seek the same objectivity and educational effectiveness expected in other areas of the curriculum. In addition, materials and activities should be sensitive to America's pluralistic society and should educate rather than indoctrinate. All instructional and other school-sponsored activities should meet the three-part test established by the Supreme Court to determine constitutionality; (1) the activity must have a secular purpose; (2) the activity's principal or primary effect must be one that neither advances nor inhibits religion; and (3) the activity must not foster an excessive governmental entanglement with religion.
Parents who wish to have their child excluded from a school program because of religious beliefs must inform the principal. The principal shall determine an alternative activity or study for the students. The superintendent and/or designee shall have the final authority to determine an alternative activity or study for the student.
Date of Approval/Review/Revision
July 2011
September 2017
October 2022
