Religion, Children, and Public Schools:

The practice of faith in public schools has been an issue of public contention throughout American history. In 1948, the Supreme Court ruled that religious instruction was prohibited in public schools. In 1963 the Court held that mandatory reading of prayers or Bible verses was prohibited. But the debate is still ongoing. What technically constitutes prayer? Can students pray, as long as it’s not mandatory? Do controls on prayer limit freedom of speech?

This panel will debunk the myths surrounding these issues. Richard T. Foltin, who contributed to the drafting of the ABA’s recommendation on religion in public schools, will moderate the program. Donna Howell will focus on the challenges school districts and communities face when there is pressure for and opposition to implementing a curriculum that focuses on “the Bible as history and literature.” Anthony R. Picarello, Jr., will discuss the free speech considerations of religious clubs, religious symbols, and the Pledge of Allegiance. Catherine J. Ross, who also contributed to the drafting of the ABA's recommendation on religion in public schools, will address the constitutional limitations on prayer in public schools as they intersect with the constitutional rights of parents to raise their children in faith, and the independent rights of children to free exercise and speech, using examples from recent controversies.

Richard T. Foltin (Moderator), Legislative Director and Counsel, Office of Government Affairs, American Jewish Committee, Washington, DC

Donna Howell, Yampa Valley Housing, Steamboat Springs, CO

Anthony R. Picarello, Jr., General Counsel, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC

Catherine J. Ross, Professor of Law, George Washington University Law School, Washington, DC

$65 Section of Individual Rights and Responsibilities Members
$85 American Constitution Society Members
$85 ABA Members
$125 General Public
$50 Each additional registrant using the same phone line

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