IGAC-AR: Recognition of Religious Beliefs and Customs

Code: IGAC-AR

Revised/Reviewed: 6/11/18

Observances of Religious Holidays

The practice of the district shall be as follows:

1. Holidays which have a religious and secular basis may be observed in the public schools;
2. The historical and contemporary values and the origin of religious and secular holidays may be explained in an unbiased and objective manner without sectarian indoctrination;
3. Music, art, literature and drama having religious themes or bases are permitted as part of schoolsponsored activities and programs if presented in a prudent and objective manner and as a traditional part of the cultural and religious heritage of the particular holiday;
4. The use of religious symbols that are a part of a religious holiday is permitted as a teaching aid or resource provided such symbols are displayed as an example of the cultural and religious heritage of the holiday and are temporary in nature;
5. The district’s calendar should be prepared to minimize conflicts with religious holidays.

Religion in the Curriculum

1. The district supports the inclusion of religious literature, music, drama and the arts in the curriculum and in school activities provided it is intrinsic to the learning experience in the various fields of study and is presented objectively.
2. The emphasis on religious themes in the arts, literature and history should be only as extensive as necessary for a balanced and comprehensive study of these areas.
3. Curriculum and instruction includes theories, views and precepts.
4. Student-initiated expressions to questions or assignments which reflect their religious or nonreligious beliefs are permissible.  For example, students are free to express religious or nonreligious belief in compositions, art forms, music, speech and debate.

Traditional Observances

Traditions are a cherished part of the community life and the district expresses an interest in maintaining those traditions which have had a significance to the community.

The practice of the district shall be as follows:

1. A baccalaureate service is traditionally religious in nature and shall not be sponsored by the district. One or more community groups may hold a baccalaureate service on district property or in a district facility, but must conform to the current community use policy.
2. A memorial service which is religious in nature shall not be sponsored by the district.  One or more community groups or individuals may hold a memorial service on district property or in a district facility, but must conform to the current community use policy.