Ohio officials may not require public school districts to partner with churches and faith-based organizations as a condition of taking part in a tax-funded mentoring program, says Americans United for Separation of Church and State. In a letter sent to Ohio officials, Americans United explains that the Community Connectors program, which provides $10 million in 3-to-1 matching grants, violates the First Amendment because it gives religious organizations priority over secular groups. “Public schools serve students from a wide range of religious and philosophical backgrounds,” said the Rev. Barry W. Lynn, executive director of Americans United. “Turning students over to mentors who may mix preaching with teaching is unconscionable, unwise and unconstitutional.” The letter comes in response to recent media reports detailing the Ohio Department of Education’s decision to add the religious requirement to the program. One report said the change was made by State Superintendent Richard Ross after consultation with various advisers, including some of Gov. John Kasich’s staff. Ohio has 30 days to reply!
Posted on: Fri, 19 Dec 2014 20:23:29 +0000
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