Policies » Section I: Instruction » IMBB: Teaching about Religion

Policy Date: 06/06/2024

CSD File: IMBB
CANDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
TEACHING ABOUT RELIGION

The Candia School Board believes that the observance of religious holidays is not the
responsibility of the public schools. Being that public schools are not places of worship, no
curricula, instruction, activities, assemblies, or decorations shall be designed or utilized to
promote, advocate for and/or endorse religion in general or a specific religion. It is
acknowledged by the Candia School Board that students have the First Amendment right to
express their religious faith and beliefs while at school provided that the manner in which they
choose to express themselves does not interfere with the educational experience of other
students.

Given the inherent educational value in portraying historical events as objectively and accurately
as possible as part of classroom instruction, it may sometimes be necessary to discuss religion.
Teachers are expected do so in a manner that focuses on portraying the role of religion in
historical events objectively while refraining from either promoting or denigrating a specific
religion or religions.

Adopted: May 3, 2001
Revised: June 6, 2024

Tips for Planning Religious Holidays in Public Schools

Before planning a religious holiday activity in my classroom or school, I would ask the following
questions:

1. Is this activity designed in any way to either promote or inhibit religion?

2. How does this activity serve the academic goals of the course, or the educational mission of
the school?

3. Will any student or parent be made to feel like an outsider, not a full member of the
community, by this activity?

4. If in December: Do I plan activities to teach about religious holidays at various times of the
year or only in December?

5. Am I prepared to teach about the religious meaning of this holiday in a way that enriches
students’ understanding of history and cultures?