For number of years there has been what is called the war on Christmas. Atheists and extremely liberals have pushed their anti-God policies on the general public. What remains is consternation for teachers and principals. They fear what could happen to their careers if they took a stand and taught the real meaning of Christmas in the classroom. It is okay to observe, celebrate, and teach students about the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ! For this reason, I am citing a policy written by the South Dakota school district which has not been overturned by the Supreme Court.
“It is accepted that no religious belief or nonbelief should be promoted by the school district or its employees, and none should be disparaged. Instead, the school district should encourage all students and staff members to appreciate and be tolerant of each other’s religious views. The school district should realize its opportunity to foster understanding and mutual respect among students and parents, whether it involves race, culture, economic background or religious beliefs.
In that spirit of tolerance, students and staff members should be excused from participating in practices that are contrary to their religious beliefs unless there are clear issues of overriding concern that would prevent it.
The use of religious symbols such as a cross, menorah, Crescent, Star of David, creche, symbols of Native American religions or other symbols that are a part of religious holidays are permitted as a teaching aid or resource, provided that such symbols are displayed as examples of the cultural religious heritage of the holiday and are temporary in nature. Among those holidays include Christmas, Easter, Passover, Hanukkah, St. Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Thanksgiving and Halloween.”
In addition, the court’s ruling also says, “Religious institutions and orientations are central to human experience, past and present. An education excluding such a significant aspect would be incomplete. It is essential that the teaching about and not of religion be conducted in a factual objective and respectful manner…. invocation and benediction, inherent in commencement ceremonies, should be honored in the spirit of accommodation and good taste…….
1. The several holidays throughout the year which have a religious and a secular basis may be observed in the public schools.
2. The historical and contemporary values and the origin of religious holidays may be explained in an unbiased and objective manner without sectarian indoctrination.
3. Music, art, literature and drama having religious themes or basis are permitted as part of the curriculum for school-sponsored activities and programs if presented in a prudent and objective manner and as a traditional part of the cultural and religious heritage of the particular holiday.”
Teachers, tell your students about Christmas, it’s real meaning as the birth of Christ the Son of God without fear of rebuke or censorship! Do not let the anti-God culture overwhelm our society whose principles are based on Scripture and history. For full exposé of this ruling, go to “Florey v. SIOUX FALLS SCH. DIST. 49-5, 464 F. Supp. 911 (D.S.D. 1979)”
Christian Writer 