Religion in Public Schools

By RCBruch

  • Zorach versus Clauson

    "Released-time" programs during school hours for outside-of-school religious instruction have been held to be constitutional by the Supreme Court.

  • School District of Abington Township versus Schempp

    A curriculum that teaches about a religion without focusing on or advocating religious devotion or doctrine meets the first litmus test of the First Amendment's Establishment Clause.

  • Lemon versus Kurtzman

    Separation of church and state requires that government action or legislation in education must clear a three-pronged test:
    1.) It must not have a religious purpose
    2.) Not have the primary effect of enhancing nor inhibiting religion
    3.) Not create excessive entanglement between church and state

  • Florey versus Sioux Falls Schools

    Playing a holiday music medley representing various religions and the season's observances is permissible.

  • Equal Access Act

    Religious groups that are voluntary and student initiated may meet on school premises.

  • Jager versus Douglas County Schools

    School officials, including coaches, may not ask an athlete or student to lead a prayer before, during, or after an athletic contest.

  • County of Allegheny versus American Civil Liberties Union

    Religious symbols may be used as teaching aids in the classroom, but cannot be used as holiday decorations.

  • Westside Community Schools versus Mergens

    The Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the Equal Access Act and declared this federal statute did not violate the First Amendment.

  • Lee versus Wiseman

    The Supreme Court ruled that an invocation and benediction at commencement by a clergyman was unconstitutional.

  • Sease versus School District of Philadelphia

    The Supreme Court disallowed a gospel choir that advertised itself as sponsored by the school district and was directed by the school secretary.

  • Doe versus Madison School District

    Commencement exercises were deemed as a forum for student expression, including expressing of religious freedoms.

  • HB 398: New Hampshire

    Prayers, such as 'The Lord's Prayer,' could be led by students but not imposed on them.

  • John Doe versus Duncanville Independent Schools

    Clergy members may not offer prayers before or after athletic events.

  • Illinois Federal District Court

    Prayers during commencement exercises was blocked. Prayers must be approved by a faculty member before recited.

  • Altman versus Bedford Central Schools

    Constructed images of a Hindu diety, which was a course requirement, violates First Amendment rights.