Michigan district considers bible study class in response to parent's request
In response to a parent’s request, Howell Public Schools (HPS) in Livingston County, Michigan is considering adding a Bible study class as an elective course. The request is being opposed by Michigan Atheists, which already was active in fighting inclusion of a similar course at another Michigan school district. "Howell has had a long history of religious intrusion, and the schools and government have done a good job staving it off," says Arlene Marie, the group’s state director. "That's why I am suspicious this is going to grow into a big issue there." The subject of religion has become a hot button for HPS, with disputes over diversity and traditional values regarding student club flags at the high school. In addition, a choir from Germany was forced to limit the amount of sacred music it could perform. However, Tim Thatcher, the parent who requested the Bible course, insists it is not taught as doctrine and is endorsed by a number of lawmakers and judges. According to the National Council of Bible Curriculum in Public Schools’ (NCBCPS) website, the course is taught in 373 school districts in 37 states. "In my eyes and in my heart, I looked this curriculum over, and I don't see anything that is a controversy here," he says. "It's offered as an elective, and it's within the boundaries of the Constitution." Ms. Marie suggests HPS officials review the proposal with a "critical eye." She also informed them of successful legal challenges in Kansas, Missouri, Texas, and Illinois, where courts ruled the NCBCPS course unconstitutional.
Detroit News
By Valerie Olander
[Full story]
[Editor’s Note: The NCBCPS website is below. Information on legal questions and controversies about Bible curricula is available starting at the second link.]
[NCBCPS website]
[NSBA School Law pages on Bible courses]