Religion in Schools/Library of Congress

After reading the article "Religion in Schools: Debate Heats Up", I do not agree with Judge Gettleman saying it is unconstitutional. A person can use a moment of silence in many different ways. If a student wants to pray during the moment of silence then they should be able to. I do not understand what the issue is in having a moment of silence. What is the harm in it? A moment of silence does not mean that the student is even praying. People may want to use the moment of silence to think about what they have plan for the day. Attorney General Mark Earley stated "A moment of silence will contribute to maintaining order and discipline in our classrooms and allow students time to thoughtfully prepare themselves for the upcoming educational activities of the day"(NA, 2010). My beliefs on this subject is it should be up to the individual what that want to use the moment of silence for.

On the issue for students exploring "the strengths and weakness" of the scientific methods, I do not see any issues with the students debating on the theory. I do feel like students are afraid of forming their on ideas on evolution. This is not a topic that I am fully aware of the issues, however I do believe the student should be able to form their ideas about the theory.

The Gobitas children knew what their religious beliefs and stood up for them. I do not agree with suspending the Gobitas children because they have to right to freedom of religion. Freedom of Religion is part of the First Amendment and a person has the right to free exercise their religion. I do not have any problem saluting the flag, however for some individuals it may be against their religion beliefs. So why are people being punished for exercising their religion?

Illinois First Amendment Center. Freedom of Religion. June 17, 2010, Retrieved from, http://www.illinoisfirstamendmentcenter.com/religion.php

Religious & Tolerance. A "Moment of Silence" in Place of Prayer in U.S Public Schools. June 17, 2010, Retrieved from, http://www.religioustolerance.org/ps_pra6.htm