There is a student in my school who wishes to create an after-school Bible study club based on The Chosen. The principal told the student she can’t use Christian language in her proposal or use Christian materials during the club. Is this true?

The principal is not correct. Student-led clubs are free to conduct their religious programming without district interference. The students must be allowed to run the program and use any religious materials they choose. The district must remain neutral when it comes to religion.   

If the principal continues to interfere, you could direct the student leader to Christian Educators, and we can connect them to free legal representation without your involvement.

You may find this video resource helpful.  

Multiple pieces of transgender propaganda are displayed in a classroom down the hall. Should I address this or ignore it?

In today’s culture, focusing on your own behavior is always the best practice. You should not take responsibility for another teacher’s classroom. In fact, trying to do so could be considered harassment. However, if you are being forced to display materials or act in ways that violate your sincerely held religious beliefs, Christian Educators can help you request a religious accommodation.

You may find the following Christian Educators resources helpful:  

• Transgender Resources page 
  
• TOV articles: "Gender Pronouns: Navigating a Difficult Landscape", "I Want a Transgender Support Plan", "Identity Confusion"   

I am a special education teacher. My director is advising me to take actions that I know are illegal. She is threatening me with a write-up if I don’t comply. In hopes of finding a solution, I met with her supervisor who told me that I need to navigate all concerns with my director. I can’t keep doing something that I know is illegal. Any advice?

Clearly, you should not allow yourself to be bullied into doing something you know is illegal.
I suggest you start keeping a detailed log of the illegal directives, including dates. Clarify in writing with your director your concerns with any directives she gives you that you know to be illegal. Email her only through the district email system. Print hard copies of all correspondence with her (even her replies) and keep them in a safe place at home. This way, you will have a personal record of all communication. 
If your director writes you up, Christian Educators can help you respond with a rebuttal using the records you have compiled. In the meantime, we will join you in prayer for a positive resolution…one that is legal and honors God.

Questions?

To submit questions regarding:

• Religious freedoms - visit Ask an Attorney
• Educational issues - visit Ask an Educator
• All other legal issues - email service@christianeducators.org