FILE:  IKD

SCHOOL CEREMONIES AND OBSERVANCES/PRAYERS IN SCHOOLS
The Benton Harbor Area Schools Board of Education, through its instructional programs shall attempt to advance all students’ knowledge and appreciation of our nation’s history and the role that religious heritage has played in the social, cultural and historical development of civilization.

Classrooms may open the school day with appropriate exercises i.e. pledge to the flag, patriotic songs, and readings of excerpts from material, which will implement the development of moral values, patriotism, and high standards of conduct.

A student who exercises a religious objection to repeating the pledge to the flag shall not be required to participate. However, such students shall not cause a disturbance or interfere with the participation of others.

Employees of the District shall neither promote nor disparage any religious belief or non-belief.

The Board encourages all students and staff to appreciate and to be tolerant of each other’s religious views.

The Board shall utilize its authority to foster understanding and mutual respect among students and parents/guardians whether it involves race, culture, economic background or religious belief.

Students and staff may be excused from participating in practices contrary to their religious beliefs unless there are clear issues and overriding concerns that would prevent their participation.

As required by the No Child Left Behind Act, the Superintendent will, by October 1 of each year, certify in writing to the state that students of the District are not prevented by policy or rule from participating in constitutionally protected prayer. The Superintendent will ensure that the staff, parents/guardians, and students are made aware of the parameters of acceptable religious speech and actions. The Superintendent will also distribute guidelines to each school, concerning religion in the school.

The Benton Harbor Area Schools, Berrien County, Michigan