The debate over teaching religion in public schools centers on balancing the historical role of Christianity in America’s founding with constitutional concerns.
States like Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Texas have recently pushed to reintroduce Christianity into classrooms, with policies mandating Bible teachings or Ten Commandments displays. Proponents argue that teaching Christian values provides moral and historical context, reflecting the beliefs of many of America’s founders. They believe foundational Christian principles, like those in the Bible, foster civic morality essential for a functional society.
However, critics assert that devotional teaching of Christianity in public schools violates the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause, which prohibits government endorsement of religion. The Supreme Court has historically struck down practices like school-sponsored prayer or devotional Bible readings, as seen in cases like Engel v. Vitale (1962) and Abington School Dist. v. Schempp (1963). Scholars emphasize that while academic study of religion, such as the Bible as literature or history, is permissible, devotional instruction risks unconstitutional entanglement of church and state.
For example, Oklahoma’s mandate to include the Bible in curricula has sparked lawsuits, with critics arguing it prioritizes Christianity over other faiths. Supporters counter that excluding religion entirely ignores its influence on American culture and history. This ties to the debate of divisions over religious expression versus secular governance in public education.
We want to ask you, the reader: should religion be taught in public schools? Answer in our poll below and comment your thoughts on the debate on the extent of what should be taught in public school settings.
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