Problems associated with teaching religion in public schools

There have been many varying opinions if religion belongs in school. Most public schools in USA are not permitted to teach or preach religion or spread any religious information. Many people including lawmakers state that it is dangerous to teach religion in a public school. 

 The Law 

 According to the McCollum vs. Board of Education case in 1948, a decision was made by the United States Supreme Court, stating that religion is banned from being taught in public schools. This ruling was based on Jim McCollum who was a child in elementary school that did not participate in religious classes. He was persecuted along with his family and isolated from his peers. The outcome was that religion should be left up to parents to pass on to their children and not the public school system. This led to the separation between Church and State, stating that religion should not be taught in a public school and should be left at home. If a school teaches religion they are in direct violation of the law. 

 School is For Everyone 

 According to the law, everyone is welcome in a public school. All students are entitled to free education. Religion in school often goes with the beliefs the majority of people practice and in the United States, it is the Christian religion. If a student does not follow this religion they can be singled out. There are many denominations of the Christian religion whose teachings will not be for everyone. Students that are not practicing a particular religion can be excluded from school activities and courses that take place during the day. If a student is excluded it can further isolate them from their peers and they will not get the most out of their education. Public schools are funded by taxpayers. If the parent’s do not want their child to attend religious teachings in school they may be opposed to paying their school taxes. They may not want to support programs that force religion on their students. They may have an issue when it comes to tax laws and paying their share. 

 Religious Freedom 

 The United States gives everyone religious freedom and they have the right to practice any religion of their choice. A person has the freedom to choose their own religion and beliefs. If a school teaches religion then they are going against these freedoms that are in the Bill of Rights. 

 Teaching is a Fine Line 

 It is the job of the school and the teacher to make all students feel welcome and allow everyone to feel comfortable. A school is a safe place. Parents and students may feel uncomfortable learning about religion and they may feel uncomfortable with the religious ideas that are being taught to their child in a public school setting. This may further isolate students. 

 While many people value their religion and practice their beliefs, there is still the separation of the church and state. Religious teachings do not belong in public schools. If a student does not follow the religion being taught this can lead to further isolation and the student is not getting the most out of their education. Hence there is some logic behind excluding religion from public schools. However, parents who want to have their kids receive religious education have the choice of sending them to religious educational institutions.