religion in schools

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Home : 2001 : May : 8

religion in schools
By Cathy-Dee

This of course can be a touchy subject for some (As LP points out perhaps that's the point).

We do live in a day and age where schools are filled with people of all types of backgrounds and religions. It is not enough
to say that one religion is more appropriate than another. I may feel that I should be allowed to talk about God while the parents of my students do not wish it. And as others who have posted have pointed out - if one is allowed to talk about their religious beliefs we would be heading into a situation that could become quite confusing and "hard to handle". I do not agree with all religions

and if I had children I would not want them taught about religious beliefs that I did not accept.

On the other hand to discuss morality in general, proper behaviour, politeness, kindness, how to be a good friend, etc., can be discussed openly and can actually lead to improved behaviour without making religion the focal point.

This is why in many areas parents who wish to have their children exposed to religious teachings have their children in private schools. Here in Alberta, some public schools now are "Christian" based and publicly funded. There are also public schools for cadets, those involved in the arts, etc., Our government and education minister and school boards are beginning to recognize that if there are enough parents who want the same thing for their children it doesn't hurt to plan a school around this. However as in separate or private schools the parents have a lot of say in how the religious nature of the school will be included into the academics of the school.

If one feels strongly enough that they wish to have religion, prayer, etc., in their classroom then they should seek out a job in a private school or Catholic school that will allow them to do so.