Jarod Enoch Smith
ENG 102 - 19908
Rio Salado College - McBride
16 March 2026
Teaching Religion in Public Schools: Is it rude to speak of Religion and Politics?
There are common topics that you should never bring upin conversation, Politics and Religion. This may be historically relevant because one of our Vice Presidents, Aaron Burr, shot the treasury Secretary, Alexander Hamilton, over a political debate, which was a national tragedy. Today we expect our citizens to vote for policies and laws that determine how we live and conduct business yet across our news channels and social media it seems that "we the people" are incapable of civilized debate. We spend billions on education and do not prepare citizens for this task. While we work on the quadratic equation in school we are left with little insight on useful information regarding our political system for which we are responsible. Many of the political views and parties are affiliated with religious ideals. Regardless of our vocational training, US citizens should be voting so that accurate representation is available and laws fulfill our constitutional rights. These under educated citizens are then susceptible to misinformation and historical inaccuracies. The key issue is not about promoting any religious or denomination, but understanding students cannot remain uneducated about it. Our country is also failing the individual, family, and community by not providing the additional supports that religion can add to the social structures of our society. Teaching religion in a neutral way is crucial in developing citizens who understand global culture influenced by religion and prepare them to participate in our diverse democracy, while improving individual, family and community life.
On a personal level, religion teaches moral standards that protect the individual, the family structure, and society. When one follows moral standards like eating healthy, not utilizing drugs, sanctity of sexual relationships, protecting one another, that person will be more likely to have good mental health and be a productive member of society. Being taught moral standards through religious studies creates a foundation for that person throughout their lives. Teaching these standards from a set of governmental rules is like telling a toddler, "No". It only intensifies the desire to do it. The morals taught through religious practices hold a standard that does not deviate on the whims of society.
On a family level, religion gives structure and order. Children should honor their parents because it will make their lives better. Husbands and wives should be equal in love and devotion. Removing these standards has left the family broken. Then the societal level is affected lastly. Religious education will at least show a moral standards to meet and set a compass for healthy relationships.
Public Schools have removed religion from education, which deviates the educator and system from standard moral education. Students learn how to be nice and cordial in elementary classes but the lessons seem to stop. As the topics become more difficult the education system remains unprepared to equip the students for adult moral decisions. Each religion has basic moral lessons that define behavior, leaving a neutral ground that most religions could agree on.
Religion also plays a tremendous part in history, culture, and society at large. Teaching religion and politics occurs naturally by the conversations of the instructors with the students. Giving education formal structure creates an open dialog for truly educated individuals. Warren A. Nord and Charles C. Haynes argue, "education that ignores religion is incomplete" (Nord and Haynes).
History
The United States educational system was originally rooted in Protestant belief structures. The Bible played a central role and prayer was considered an essential part of education. From the nation's founding through the nineteenth century, Protestant Christianity remained a major influence in public schooling. Public schools began to move away from formal religious instruction. Supreme Court rulings contributed to this shift. In Engel v. Vitale (1962), the Court ruled that school led prayer was unconstitutional. In Abington School District v. Schempp (1963), it was ruled mandatory Bible reading in public schools was also unconstitutional. Kent Greenawalt explains that "public schools must navigate the constitutional limits on religious expression carefully" (Greenawalt).
The problem was that our nation was growing and changing and we needed to meet the desires of the public. Major shifts in church attendance mirror the enlightenment period of the 17 and 18 hundreds where reason became more important than government control and influence. Removing the Protestant dominate and mandatory religious education was necessary to provide unbiased education for all. However, when a crucial piece of education is removed society is affected and we can see the effects today.
Extent of the Problem
With religion being far from the individual they may not be exposed to any kind of religious community or culture. Eliminating the opportunity to experience a great life supplemented a shaped by the standards of religion. Religion gives the individual hope for a future and a purpose. This increases mental, emotional and physical wellness. With many not having background knowledge about religion, they will automatically shy away from religion or dismiss it all together
Families that are raising their children with any religious beliefs other than atheism/agnosticism are then being discriminated against. Their social and cultural identity is being challenged, thus minimizing authority/wisdom from the parents. This is the reason for a mass exodus from public education. The relative morals are being challenged by the lowest denominator of standards. The freedom to express everything but religion does not meet the needs of the public education system.
Public education today does not focus much on religious studies, which can leave students without important historical knowledge needed to make informed personal, social, and civic decisions. Individuals that understand different religious beliefs are more likely to think carefully about their moral choices and how those choices affect their lives. Scholars Walter Feinberg and Richard A. Layton explain that "citizens in a pluralistic democracy need knowledge of religion to participate fully in civic life" (Feinberg and Layton). Many schools and public organizations follow social values that come from religious traditions. Learning about these ideas can help build a stronger sense of community, respect, and care for others. As students grow up and become voters, they begin to influence not only their schools and workplaces but the future of the country. Citizens who are educated about religion may have a better understanding of political issues and the different beliefs that shape them.
Repercussions of the Problem
Mental and emotional health has become a concern for our nation, 23.4% of adults in the United States, over 60 million expressed some form of mental illness in the past year (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). 1in 5 adults in the United States lives with a mental health condition (Mental Health America). These statistics highlight the need for awareness, education, and support. While the addition of religion isn't the silver bullet it must remain an option for Americans to seek refuge in difficult times.
Research shows that being affiliated with religious organization can add much needed mental support and sense of community belonging. They provide strong positive social structures that encourage self-care and care of others. Isolation and anxiety are reduced and lessons of positive behavior have good outcomes. Messages of peace and compassion can improve mental health. According to Harold G. Koenig, "religious involvement is associated with better coping and greater life satisfaction" (Koenig). These benefits can help individuals build resilience and maintain a more positive outlook on life.
The removal of religion from schools has contributed to a weaker sense of shared values. Many people now focus more on themselves, which can leave less attention for children, family, community, and country. People who are active in church communities often value larger families and take part in community support systems that help others. Education is important, and without knowledge about religion, students may be more likely to show intolerance or make poor decisions in life. When citizens are less informed and less engaged in important topics they can weaken the strength of society. Robert Kunzman explains that "avoiding discussions of religion leaves students unprepared for the moral and cultural complexities of modern life" (Kunzman).
Band Aid Solution
A practical short-term solution is to include religious literacy into school programs. Education about religion in an unbiased way will complete understanding in history, culture and different belief systems. Waal, Mawdsley, and Cumming explain that "education about religion can promote shared national values when taught appropriately" (De Waal et al.) Teacher training programs on religious topics that are fair and informed need to be developed to support this goal. Clear policies must also be in place to ensure the lessons academically align with constitutional laws.
At the elementary level, kindergarten through fifth grade, students will be introduced to basic ideas about different major religions through the world. Cultural activities and holidays can be highlighted to build understanding and respect at an early age without a biased standpoint. For the middle school years, core beliefs will be introduced, and historical and geographical information will be incorporated. In high school, students should begin to develop some critical thinking within the religious ideals and be able to compare theological and ideological themes. In the last years of school, the student should understand how religion and political ideas intersect. This will help the students to have a good understanding of religious and political viewpoints.
Partnerships with churches in the school district should be formed as a community resource. There should be a general list of churches and the services they offer. It would be no different than offering a community resource center. Churches that have counseling services and family assistance programs can be highlighted and special needs and bilingual programs are also highlighted. The schools can also reach out to the churches in their area for support that is particular to the population.
With the current legislation in place incorporation of religious studies into history, philosophy, and social studies should not be difficult. These courses emphasize cultural structures, historical figures and belief systems. This Band Aid solution will not be possible in the area of science until the court changes rulings like Edwards v. Aguillard, that asserts that creationism is based on a religious belief and not on a scientific theory.
Long Term Solution
The Public Education system needs to evolve to meet the needs of the Public. The court decisions that have removed religious education and practices have now removed those families that value those ideals. Creating curriculum and courses that promote religious views will allow students to actively engage in an education that values their beliefs and ideals. When court rulings are changed or overturned teachers can feel free to discuss and freely speak of topics concerning religion, classrooms can be changed, ideals can be progressive.
Creating classrooms were religious topics easily flow into subjects teaching multiple views and theories. Religion and politics will be highlighted in each lesson showing how much religion and culture have played a part in the history of knowledge. Highlighting religious abuse of power and the reason for historical change because of the misuse of power in the name of god. War and politics will also be included in a safe and environment allowing students to view events from multiple perspectives. The country will train citizens on basics of debate so they can understand emotional and logical reasoning.
A new mind-set to express religious lifestyle choices alongside more progressive choices needs to be practiced in a safe and neutral environment for there to be change in the world. A student who identifies as a Christian and a student who identify as an animal will be able to be kind to one another while both not agreeing with one another's life-style choices. Replicating the real-world discussions will help to bridge the gap in politics and religion
If we are unable to learn together without excluding anyone the trends of families choosing private, charter and homeschool will continue. This may be a solution to meet the needs of the public. Large school districts will be broken apart to specialize education. Each school can value what they need to and the funding can be redistributed away from high priced administration and sent to teachers and tutors.
Conclusion
When we continue to avoid discussions of religion and politics in education we do not prevent conflict, we leave students unprepared to handle complex issues. Understanding religion is crucial for civic responsibility like voting, cultural awarness and hopefully kindness, and increased health for self, family, and community. Teaching religion in public schools does not have to promote belief but provides knowledge necessary for critical thinking. In the case that someone utilizes a religious community for their self-improvement our society should cheer. When students gain understanding of their classmates and different religions they become engaged citizens who can contribute positively to society. In a world full of diversity and misinformation, education should encourage understanding rather than silence.
Works Cited
ENG 102 - 19908
Rio Salado College - McBride
16 March 2026
Teaching Religion in Public Schools: Is it rude to speak of Religion and Politics?
There are common topics that you should never bring upin conversation, Politics and Religion. This may be historically relevant because one of our Vice Presidents, Aaron Burr, shot the treasury Secretary, Alexander Hamilton, over a political debate, which was a national tragedy. Today we expect our citizens to vote for policies and laws that determine how we live and conduct business yet across our news channels and social media it seems that "we the people" are incapable of civilized debate. We spend billions on education and do not prepare citizens for this task. While we work on the quadratic equation in school we are left with little insight on useful information regarding our political system for which we are responsible. Many of the political views and parties are affiliated with religious ideals. Regardless of our vocational training, US citizens should be voting so that accurate representation is available and laws fulfill our constitutional rights. These under educated citizens are then susceptible to misinformation and historical inaccuracies. The key issue is not about promoting any religious or denomination, but understanding students cannot remain uneducated about it. Our country is also failing the individual, family, and community by not providing the additional supports that religion can add to the social structures of our society. Teaching religion in a neutral way is crucial in developing citizens who understand global culture influenced by religion and prepare them to participate in our diverse democracy, while improving individual, family and community life.
On a personal level, religion teaches moral standards that protect the individual, the family structure, and society. When one follows moral standards like eating healthy, not utilizing drugs, sanctity of sexual relationships, protecting one another, that person will be more likely to have good mental health and be a productive member of society. Being taught moral standards through religious studies creates a foundation for that person throughout their lives. Teaching these standards from a set of governmental rules is like telling a toddler, "No". It only intensifies the desire to do it. The morals taught through religious practices hold a standard that does not deviate on the whims of society.
On a family level, religion gives structure and order. Children should honor their parents because it will make their lives better. Husbands and wives should be equal in love and devotion. Removing these standards has left the family broken. Then the societal level is affected lastly. Religious education will at least show a moral standards to meet and set a compass for healthy relationships.
Public Schools have removed religion from education, which deviates the educator and system from standard moral education. Students learn how to be nice and cordial in elementary classes but the lessons seem to stop. As the topics become more difficult the education system remains unprepared to equip the students for adult moral decisions. Each religion has basic moral lessons that define behavior, leaving a neutral ground that most religions could agree on.
Religion also plays a tremendous part in history, culture, and society at large. Teaching religion and politics occurs naturally by the conversations of the instructors with the students. Giving education formal structure creates an open dialog for truly educated individuals. Warren A. Nord and Charles C. Haynes argue, "education that ignores religion is incomplete" (Nord and Haynes).
History
The United States educational system was originally rooted in Protestant belief structures. The Bible played a central role and prayer was considered an essential part of education. From the nation's founding through the nineteenth century, Protestant Christianity remained a major influence in public schooling. Public schools began to move away from formal religious instruction. Supreme Court rulings contributed to this shift. In Engel v. Vitale (1962), the Court ruled that school led prayer was unconstitutional. In Abington School District v. Schempp (1963), it was ruled mandatory Bible reading in public schools was also unconstitutional. Kent Greenawalt explains that "public schools must navigate the constitutional limits on religious expression carefully" (Greenawalt).
The problem was that our nation was growing and changing and we needed to meet the desires of the public. Major shifts in church attendance mirror the enlightenment period of the 17 and 18 hundreds where reason became more important than government control and influence. Removing the Protestant dominate and mandatory religious education was necessary to provide unbiased education for all. However, when a crucial piece of education is removed society is affected and we can see the effects today.
Extent of the Problem
With religion being far from the individual they may not be exposed to any kind of religious community or culture. Eliminating the opportunity to experience a great life supplemented a shaped by the standards of religion. Religion gives the individual hope for a future and a purpose. This increases mental, emotional and physical wellness. With many not having background knowledge about religion, they will automatically shy away from religion or dismiss it all together
Families that are raising their children with any religious beliefs other than atheism/agnosticism are then being discriminated against. Their social and cultural identity is being challenged, thus minimizing authority/wisdom from the parents. This is the reason for a mass exodus from public education. The relative morals are being challenged by the lowest denominator of standards. The freedom to express everything but religion does not meet the needs of the public education system.
Public education today does not focus much on religious studies, which can leave students without important historical knowledge needed to make informed personal, social, and civic decisions. Individuals that understand different religious beliefs are more likely to think carefully about their moral choices and how those choices affect their lives. Scholars Walter Feinberg and Richard A. Layton explain that "citizens in a pluralistic democracy need knowledge of religion to participate fully in civic life" (Feinberg and Layton). Many schools and public organizations follow social values that come from religious traditions. Learning about these ideas can help build a stronger sense of community, respect, and care for others. As students grow up and become voters, they begin to influence not only their schools and workplaces but the future of the country. Citizens who are educated about religion may have a better understanding of political issues and the different beliefs that shape them.
Repercussions of the Problem
Mental and emotional health has become a concern for our nation, 23.4% of adults in the United States, over 60 million expressed some form of mental illness in the past year (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). 1in 5 adults in the United States lives with a mental health condition (Mental Health America). These statistics highlight the need for awareness, education, and support. While the addition of religion isn't the silver bullet it must remain an option for Americans to seek refuge in difficult times.
Research shows that being affiliated with religious organization can add much needed mental support and sense of community belonging. They provide strong positive social structures that encourage self-care and care of others. Isolation and anxiety are reduced and lessons of positive behavior have good outcomes. Messages of peace and compassion can improve mental health. According to Harold G. Koenig, "religious involvement is associated with better coping and greater life satisfaction" (Koenig). These benefits can help individuals build resilience and maintain a more positive outlook on life.
The removal of religion from schools has contributed to a weaker sense of shared values. Many people now focus more on themselves, which can leave less attention for children, family, community, and country. People who are active in church communities often value larger families and take part in community support systems that help others. Education is important, and without knowledge about religion, students may be more likely to show intolerance or make poor decisions in life. When citizens are less informed and less engaged in important topics they can weaken the strength of society. Robert Kunzman explains that "avoiding discussions of religion leaves students unprepared for the moral and cultural complexities of modern life" (Kunzman).
Band Aid Solution
A practical short-term solution is to include religious literacy into school programs. Education about religion in an unbiased way will complete understanding in history, culture and different belief systems. Waal, Mawdsley, and Cumming explain that "education about religion can promote shared national values when taught appropriately" (De Waal et al.) Teacher training programs on religious topics that are fair and informed need to be developed to support this goal. Clear policies must also be in place to ensure the lessons academically align with constitutional laws.
At the elementary level, kindergarten through fifth grade, students will be introduced to basic ideas about different major religions through the world. Cultural activities and holidays can be highlighted to build understanding and respect at an early age without a biased standpoint. For the middle school years, core beliefs will be introduced, and historical and geographical information will be incorporated. In high school, students should begin to develop some critical thinking within the religious ideals and be able to compare theological and ideological themes. In the last years of school, the student should understand how religion and political ideas intersect. This will help the students to have a good understanding of religious and political viewpoints.
Partnerships with churches in the school district should be formed as a community resource. There should be a general list of churches and the services they offer. It would be no different than offering a community resource center. Churches that have counseling services and family assistance programs can be highlighted and special needs and bilingual programs are also highlighted. The schools can also reach out to the churches in their area for support that is particular to the population.
With the current legislation in place incorporation of religious studies into history, philosophy, and social studies should not be difficult. These courses emphasize cultural structures, historical figures and belief systems. This Band Aid solution will not be possible in the area of science until the court changes rulings like Edwards v. Aguillard, that asserts that creationism is based on a religious belief and not on a scientific theory.
Long Term Solution
The Public Education system needs to evolve to meet the needs of the Public. The court decisions that have removed religious education and practices have now removed those families that value those ideals. Creating curriculum and courses that promote religious views will allow students to actively engage in an education that values their beliefs and ideals. When court rulings are changed or overturned teachers can feel free to discuss and freely speak of topics concerning religion, classrooms can be changed, ideals can be progressive.
Creating classrooms were religious topics easily flow into subjects teaching multiple views and theories. Religion and politics will be highlighted in each lesson showing how much religion and culture have played a part in the history of knowledge. Highlighting religious abuse of power and the reason for historical change because of the misuse of power in the name of god. War and politics will also be included in a safe and environment allowing students to view events from multiple perspectives. The country will train citizens on basics of debate so they can understand emotional and logical reasoning.
A new mind-set to express religious lifestyle choices alongside more progressive choices needs to be practiced in a safe and neutral environment for there to be change in the world. A student who identifies as a Christian and a student who identify as an animal will be able to be kind to one another while both not agreeing with one another's life-style choices. Replicating the real-world discussions will help to bridge the gap in politics and religion
If we are unable to learn together without excluding anyone the trends of families choosing private, charter and homeschool will continue. This may be a solution to meet the needs of the public. Large school districts will be broken apart to specialize education. Each school can value what they need to and the funding can be redistributed away from high priced administration and sent to teachers and tutors.
Conclusion
When we continue to avoid discussions of religion and politics in education we do not prevent conflict, we leave students unprepared to handle complex issues. Understanding religion is crucial for civic responsibility like voting, cultural awarness and hopefully kindness, and increased health for self, family, and community. Teaching religion in public schools does not have to promote belief but provides knowledge necessary for critical thinking. In the case that someone utilizes a religious community for their self-improvement our society should cheer. When students gain understanding of their classmates and different religions they become engaged citizens who can contribute positively to society. In a world full of diversity and misinformation, education should encourage understanding rather than silence.
Works Cited
