2270 - RELIGION IN THE CURRICULUM

Upper Arlington City School District

Administrative Guidelines

2270 - RELIGION IN THE CURRICULUM

The intent of the following administrative guideline is to deal, in a fair and constructive manner, with the issue of exposing students to factual knowledge of various religions without the promotion of any religious tenet or belief.

Holidays

Certain holidays having a religious and a secular basis are an important part of American history and tradition. Teachers may recognize such holidays as appropriate to the students’ interest and maturity and course of study if such is accomplished in a non-doctrinaire manner. The holding of assemblies and the use of decorations as part of any such recognition shall be subject to the following constraints:

Assemblies

		1.	All programs and activities shall be compatible with the educational objectives of the District.
		2.	Participants in holiday assemblies shall be school-related personnel.
		3.	Student participation in an assembly program or attendance at an assembly shall be in accordance with Students’ Rights and Responsibilities Policy Statements and administrative guidelines.
		4.	Holiday-related programs shall include a combination of religious and secular content, whenever appropriate. There shall be a variety of such opportunities which focus upon the development of an appreciation for and an understanding of the cultural heritage.

	B.	Decorations
		While students shall not be denied the privilege of using familiar religious symbols in decorations, the teacher shall not initiate such projects. Decorations may reflect the cultural traditions of a particular holiday. The appropriateness of a decoration is a matter of teacher judgment in terms of aesthetic quality and relation to the achievement of an educational objective.

Use of School Facilities for Religious Activities

Religious activities are herein defined as activities which take place in a devotional setting.

Use of School Facilities for Religious Activity During Student Day (time s classes are in session):

		1.	Groups consisting exclusively of Upper Arlington Students will not be permitted such use.
		2.	Groups consisting of Upper Arlington students and other persons will not be permitted such use.
		3.	Groups consisting exclusively of persons other than Upper Arlington students may use facilities for religious activities based on policy.

	B.	Use of School Facilities for Religious Activity Outside Student Day (times classes are not in session):
		Any of the groups identified in "A" above may use school facilities for religious activities. Procedures for making arrangements for such use are found in Board policy.
	C.	Use of School Facilities for Baccalaureate Exercises
		The use of school facilities for a voluntary Baccalaureate service may be made available if requested by the graduating class. This program could be planned and organized by Association of Clergy in conjunction with parents of the Senior Class.

Distribution of Religious Literature

	A.	To Students:
		Informational materials which do not promote religious tenets or beliefs may be approved by the Superintendent for distribution or posting, in keeping with Board policy relating to Community Activities for Students.
	B.	To Library
		Religious materials used as a resource or reference in school libraries must meet criteria established in Policies and Procedures for the Selection of Instructional Materials.

Practice of Religion

	A.	Individual
		An individual’s practice of religion during school hours shall not disrupt the educational process nor infringe on any other individual’s rights as noted in Students’ Rights and Responsibilities Policy statements and Administrative Guidelines.
	B.	Classroom
		The public schools may not engage in doctrinaire religious instruction of a sectarian or non-sectarian nature. Thus, among other religious practices that are prohibited, they may not lead or otherwise encourage the use of Bible reading as part of opening classroom exercises.

Curriculum

All curricular activities as specified below shall relate directly to the attainment of stated educational objectives of the District and shall be responsive to student developmental levels.

	A.	The recognition of religious influences found in the historical background of our country, cultures of past and present civilizations, great works of art, literature, music and drama is acceptable.
	B.	More in-depth study of comparative religions may be pursued as students grow in maturity. Elective courses at the secondary level, therefore, may include the study of the Bible for its literary and historic qualities or the inclusion of the student of comparative religion as within, for example, the framework of a humanities or sociology course.
	C.	The individual comes to school with a natural curiosity and inquisitive mind. Teachers should respond to students’ questions with sensitivity, realizing their professional responsibility not to offend any ethnic or religious group. Teachers may present their own religious views when asked; when presented, it should be emphasized that they are given only as personal attitudes and values, and the student should be encouraged to discuss such question with his/her parent or other legal guardian.
	D.	The teacher shall utilize his/her understanding of the students’ developmental levels and the current instructional program in presenting information regarding issues related to various religious or scientific theories. Varying points of view regarding these issues shall be identified and incorporated into a balanced presentation.