Two different stories this week demonstrate the continued tension that public schools find in seeking an appropriate balance on church-state matters. A Farmington, Michigan high school student has filed suit challenging school officials' refusal to permit ALIVE, a Christian Bible group, to be recognized as an official student organization. Assistant Superintendent Catherine Cost, said that school rules preclude recognition because the Bible group does not have a secular purpose and is too religious to be officially recognized. Officials were willing to let the group meet in an empty classroom, without formal recognition; however this would mean that the group would not get other benefits available to recognized organizations. Representing the student, the Thomas More Law Center argues that the federal Equal Access Act requires that ALIVE be recognized on the same basis as other non-curricular groups. Today's Philadelphia Evening Bulletin reports on the case.
Meanwhile yesterday's Houston Chronicle reports that a Christian motivational group, Power Team, finds that some public schools are cancelling its scheduled performances because of the group's evangelical ties. Power Team representatives say they do not mention religion in their public school performances. Their shows emphasize the importance of valuing life and dressing appropriately, as the group preaches against drugs and suicide.
