December 13, 2007 7:46 AM
Christmas shut out at Waterford Elementary School?
I packed this in Justin's backpack this morning:
December 13, 2007Dear Friends at Waterford –
Justin has now brought home stuff about Hanukah and Kwanza.
I have not seen anything about Christmas. And I’m not talking about candy canes and trees. I’m talking about something representing the true basis for the Christian holiday celebrated by a much larger percentage of the population than these other holidays.
We sat silently through the huge hoopla that is Halloween at Waterford School, even though that is a religious holiday we do not celebrate ourselves.
Is Christianity to be shut out of my son’s school completely? If so, this is religious bias and it is illegal.
I am offended that I had to display forbearance about religious holidays not celebrated by our family while people who feel uncomfortable with ours are catered to. Public schools are about inclusion for all.
I am attaching federal guidelines (highlights here). I will publish this at my blog and invite your response.
[And just for the record, I think way too much time is spent on this stuff that should be spent on academics. Not sure how the idea that schools are for fun originated, but those worrying/complaining about schools not meeting educational standards need to know you can't have it both ways.]
Posted in Christmas, Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink
Comments
Thank you!
Posted by: Lisa G. | December 13, 2007 9:13 AM
I can't believe you had to write this!! I'm surprised that Christmas was completly ignored but at the same time I'm kind of not.. After all this is America and If they didn't send something home about Kwanza you would be racist and banned from the PTA! I love your point!
Posted by: JaeLorette | December 13, 2007 9:59 AM
good for you! great letter and I can't wait to see the response you get!!
Posted by: millicent | December 13, 2007 12:56 PM
Barbara,
I was so happy to see what you sent in to Waterford! I am Ann's friend who has spoken to the principal about this issue and needless to say it got very heated! I have also just gotten off the phone with the attorney for the Loudoun County schools along with the Deputy Superintendent. I discussed how this was reverse discrimination against Christians and how we are tired of everyone being so careful not to offend anyone and in the meantime our children are being taught every religion except for Christianity. I also said to them that it was amazing how Jesus was the only thing everyone did not want mentioned! Shows how powerful he is. Anyway they are in agreement that we need to level the playing field and if the Menorah is taught then the nativity should also be allowed. They are talking to Dr. Lynn today and are getting back with me tomorrow. Will let you know! I'm so glad to know someone else who has the guts to stand up for this and not deny the most important person in our life.
Take care-Maria Reinertson
Posted by: Maria Reinertson | December 13, 2007 1:46 PM
One of my dearest friends has to deal with this all the time. Her child is public schooled, and repeatedly spends time in the library when the teacher is teaching about things that the parents don't agree with...halloween was a big one!
I found your blog last year when looking for homeschooling info. So, I was excited that you would be at Mt.Hermon this year. I'll be attending the conference this year on scholarship from Cecil Murphey. Can you give me any tips? I've been writing seriously less than a year, and only been published in a local magazine.
Thanks, Bethany
Posted by: Bethany | December 13, 2007 1:54 PM
