Religion in Schools

     The separation of Church and State is always a heated topic of debate.  There are few topics that people are more passionate about than their religion or even their lack thereof.  After reading the article, "Religion in Schools Debate Heats Up," I see the issue is no closer to being resolved.  Our nation was founded on Christian principles and also freedom.  However, these two topics tend to conflict when it comes to our education system.
     I personally grew up in a Christian household and have practiced Christianity my whole life.  I believe that God will always be part of life, but I also respect others' choices and own religious beliefs.  I think the school system does too.  A quote I came across during my research says, "All parties should treat one another with civility and respect and should strive to be accurate and fair” (First Amendment Center). I believe that this is a goal of not only our education system, but also the First Amendment.
     At first after reading the article "Religion in Schools Debate Heats Up," I tended to almost agree with Judge Gettleman's ruling against the moment of silence only because I think religion should be left out of schools.  However, once I put thought into it, I don't agree with it at all.  The moment of silence is in no way specific to any religion.  If you are religious you can pray, but if you aren't, a prayer is not required.  The article simply states "it is a student's personal choice whether to pray or reflect more generally; therefore, proponents say, the law does not force religion on public school children" (Calefati, 2009). I agree with this point 100%.  It doesn't matter what students actually do during the moment of silence; it is open to all religions and nobody is making it mandatory to pray. Overall I don't believe religion belongs in a school setting because of so many diverse beliefs.  However a simple moment of silence should not offend anyone- Believers or non-Believers.

References:

Calefati, J. (2009). Religions in schools debate heats up.  Retrieved from: https://elearn.mtsu.edu/d2l/lms/content/viewer/main_frame.d2l?ou=2975445&tId=19133302

First Amendment Center (1999). A parent’s guide to religion in public Schools.  Retrieved from: http://eric.ed.gov/PDFS/ED440021.pdf