Religion in Public Schools
Religion in Public Schools

If you are old enough, you will recall a late night television program, The Arsenio Hall Show. If you are a "baby," this program was something along the lines of The Tonight Show. This program was made famous by Bill Clinton's "campaign stop" guest appearance when he played the saxophone. If recollection serves me well, he played "Jailhouse Rock." Anyway, Arsenio Hall always included a segment entitled "Things That Make You Go Hmmm?"

After reading the articles "Religion and Schools: the Debate Heats Up 2009" and "Library of Congress Artifacts," I did as I always do when this subject comes up... I think, hmmm?

First, I remember that the United States of America was founded by a group of Separatist seeking religious freedom. Then, I recall that for a long while its school systems were centered on religious education. "Theology was weaved into every song, every thought, and every act of Americans. The idea and belief of God was everywhere" (Dobson, 2007). However, when the Separation of Church and State was put into place as a result of the First Amendment of the Constitution in 1791, "the correlation between God and the good of humanity was suddenly obliterated" (Dobson, 2007).

At this point in time, 1791, the concept of "religious education" began its own evolution. Interesting term to use in regard to religion, don't you think?

I can't help but remember that this country's government was founded by immigrants, and its initial ideals were established by those same immigrants. However, isn't it interesting that as our country evolved (there's that term again) it became populated by more and more immigrants? As a result of this melting pot, new thoughts, ideas, and BELIEFS were firmly planted in American soil. A little over 200 years later, I find it ironic that the ORIGINAL immigrants' ideals have been erased, but not replaced, for the sake of sensitivity toward the NEWER immigrants. So... what are our ideals now? Just a thought.

I DO find it interesting that although the First Ammendment was put into place in 1791, the public school system is still ironing out the wrinkles in regard to religion in 2010. I DO find it interesting that a moment of silence must be specifically defined in regard to intended use. And... I DO find it interesting that if we are teaching U.S. History, Civics, and American Literature, we no longer seem to place importance on at least acknowledging the American flag and its significance to our country. Now, that's evolution! Or... is it CONTRADICTION?

These are just some things that make ME go hmmm?

Reference:

Dobson, A. (17 September 2007). "The Impact of Separartion of Church and State on Education." Retrieved from http://www.associatedcontent.com/. 6/