First Amendment In Education Research Paper

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Religion and the First Amendment in the Schools

The First Amendment in the classroom gives way to students having freedom of choice, religion and speech. In this paper, we will discuss the legal issues with a student given the opportunity to choose a hero to represent in an essay and to draw of picture that depicts that hero. The student chooses Jesus as his hero and in turn draws a picture of the Last Supper. How does the teacher go about grading this assignment and displaying the picture in the classroom? This topic provides much discussion and controversy with freedom of religion, speech and choice in regards to the First Amendment in the classroom. As addressed in Settle V. Dickson County School Board (1995)
Legal Issues Regarding Grading of Assignment
Legal issues that apply to the student writing an essay about Jesus seems very clear. As long as the student completed the assignment according to the rubric and all criteria was meet the student should not be reprimanded in any way. The student chose who they felt was a hero to them and there should be no legal action. Which refers to the First Amendment that states, “Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech” (U.S. Const. amend. I). After …show more content…

The student was given the choice to draw a picture the represents a hero in their mind. The guidelines were followed and in doing so the student should be graded just as are the other students. For instance, students at the Lyon County School District are given the opportunity to express their beliefs in multiple ways with respect to other religions and or beliefs. No religions or beliefs are being threatened by displaying the students work. In other words, teachers must use their own judgement when it comes down to this sort of subject. Take into account and consideration of their students and families beliefs and decide what is best for all individuals

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