Religion infiltrates public school
Written by Tom Beasley in News, Opinion at March 10, 2011
For over 50 years the following banner has been displayed at Cranston High School West, a public high school in Rhode Island:
Our Heavenly Father,
Grant us each day the desire to do our best.
To grow mentally and morally as well as physically.
To be kind and helpful to our classmates and teachers.
To be honest with ourselves as well as with others.
Help us to be good sports and smile when we lose as well as when we win.
Teach us the value of true friendship.
Help us always to conduct ourselves so as to bring credit to Cranston High School West.
Amen.
After receiving criticism about the plaque the school board decided to investigate the issue. After careful deliberation, at a vote of 4-3, the school decided to keep the banner regardless of , and in conscious anticipation of, potential lawsuits. One parent “…urged the School Committee to keep a prayer at Cranston West, even if that meant going to court.” Going on to say: “America needs a hero. Let’s be the hero.”
The Friendly Atheist comments:
“Congratulations, Cranston. Your school board just voted to throw away thousands of dollars in litigation because they can’t keep their religion to themselves.
Who needs teachers, music, sports, or a K-6 honors program when you want to cram god down students’ throats?”
Further reading:
Friendly Atheist
