POS 500 discussion 5 topic 1

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Grand Canyon University *

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500

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Political Science

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Apr 3, 2024

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docx

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2

Uploaded by CorporalFangCoyote35

limitations to ensure that these activities do not interfere with the educational environment or violate the rights of other students. The first Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantee the right to freedom of religion, which includes the right to express one’s religious beliefs. The Supreme Court has established guidelines to balance the rights of students with the need to maintain a inclusive environment. The Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District (1969) case, for example, saw the Supreme Court upholding students' right to wear armbands in protest of the Vietnam War, stating that students do not "shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate." However, there are limitations to this right. For example, in Lee v. Weisman (1992), the Court ruled that school-sponsored prayer at graduation ceremonies violated the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. This case demonstrates that while students have their religious beliefs, schools cannot endorse or promote religion. Another limitation is outlined in Santa Fe, Independent School District v. Doe (2000), where the Court held that student- led prayers at football games were unconstitutional because they created a coercive environment for students who did not share the same religious beliefs. This case underscores the importance of protecting the rights of all students, regardless of their religious beliefs. The Establishment Clause is violated when a school-approved prayer is said in a public-school context, as established by the seminal 1962 Engel v. Vitale ruling. However, during times when classes are not in session, students are still allowed to pray individually or in groups, so long as they don't interfere with other students' rights or cause disturbances. This right was affirmed by the Equal Access Act of 1984. In conclusion, these cases highlight the limitations on religious expression in public schools. While students have the right to express their religious beliefs, it must be done in a voluntary, non-disruptive manner and should not be sponsored or endorsed by the school. Schools must remain neutral and ensure that all students, regardless of their religious beliefs, feel included and respected. By understanding the relevant court cases and the principles of the U.S. Constitution, educators can create a respectful and inclusive learning environment for students.
Reference: Santa Fe Independent School District v. Doe 530 U.S. 290(2000) Engel v. Vitale, 370 U.S. 421 (1962) Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District, 393 U.S. 503 (1969) Lee v. Weisman, 505 U.S. 577 (1992)
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