In this installment of “Legally Speaking,” CEAI Executive Director Finn Laursen takes a question from a teacher threatened with the loss of her after-school Christian program. (Did you get last month’s “Legally Speaking” about being called into a meeting with the principal? Read it here.)
Question
We have successfully held an “out of school hours” Christian program for the last 14 years at my school… I have recently been informed that our new principal plans to do away with the club. She feels concerned that if she allows our group to meet, then she would have to allow Atheist or Satan-worshipping groups to meet as well. What should I do?
Answer
First, you should check the board policy regarding clubs. If you have an open forum for building use and clubs, the principal cannot decide to eliminate clubs. Second, you should check that your club has completed all formal applications necessary for building use. Third, clearly define who serves as the leader of your club. You cannot lead the Christian club as a public school teacher. However, students can lead Christian clubs held at public schools, or a community member can request use of a public school facility to run a Christian club. If you work as a school employee, your church could reserve the space, and you could run the club as a church leader.
These differences may seem trivial. However, if the principal is trying to create roadblocks, these details can make a difference.
Satan followers can start a club. Schools cannot discriminate against any religion, but requiring parental permission to join clubs usually hinders the growth of these clubs.
(This excerpt was taken from “Legally Speaking,” a regular feature in Teachers of Vision magazine by CEAI. Read below to find out how to receive Teachers of Vision.)
To summarize, there are generally two categories of Christian groups in public schools, and they have different rules:
1. Official schools clubs: These groups are typically at the middle school or high school level, and require a faculty adviser. Public school staff cannot “lead” religious clubs as they are supervising these clubs in their roles as agents of the state.
2. Community-based groups that usually meet after school: These groups are common at the elementary level, are sponsored by an outside organization, and require parental permission slips. If a school allows community groups to use their facilities, they cannot discriminate against religious groups such as Good News Clubs or a local church. Public school staff can volunteer with these organizations and lead these clubs legally.
If you need guidance on these issues, or anything else related to walking out your faith as an educator, please contact us.
Blessings,
David Schmus
Outreach Director
Christian Educators Association International
ceai.org