After months of contentious debate, a Bakersfield, CA, school district voted to display the phrase “In God We Trust” on the walls of more than 2,300 classrooms, school libraries, administrative offices, and the board’s meeting room.
Adopted by Congress as the U.S. motto in 1956, the words will be highlighted, along with portions of the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, and the original national motto: e pluribus unum, Latin for “from many, one,” on posters, which are costing the district about $12,000. Next to the phrases are explanations of the phrases histories.
Opponents view the board’s decision as part of a broader effort to infuse local schools with religious doctrine. However, board president Bob Hampton cast the sole dissenting vote in the 4-1 decision, arguing that “the spiritual side of a student belongs in the home and in the church – not in the school.”
Supporters described the outcome of the debate as “a victory for patriotism and supporting education.” “How could you oppose having the nation’s motto on public schools?” asked board member Batey – “especially when it’s placed in an educational and historic context?” Batey continues.
For now, the board’s decision stands as final, and the posters are making their way to classroom walls throughout the district; however, the debate is still hot and causing quite a stir inside and outside the faith community in the area.
What is your opinion on using or displaying religious language in public schools?
Do you feel that other, more pagan, symbols and phrases used throughout U.S. history should also be displayed with equal attention?
How do you teach your students to interact in a Christ-like manner in such debates?
