School Board of the City of Virginia Beach
Policy 6-9

INSTRUCTION

Religion in the Curriculum

1. Generally
   
   This policy recognizes the pluralism of religious beliefs of citizens and the significance of religion in Virginia's history. It assumes the freedom of the individual to exercise this freedom, and not to be coerced by the state into believing any set of religious doctrine or coerced into abandoning any set of religious beliefs.
   
   
2. Objective Teaching About Religion
   
   Teaching about religion, not instruction in religion, may take place as a separate course, in an appropriate part of another course, or in an enrichment program. Teachers should be adequately prepared to teach about religion. Separate courses about religion are deemed appropriate as electives in the secondary curriculum. Any new course offering must be approved by the School Board.
   

Legal References :

Code of Va., § 22.1-202, as amended, Instruction in history and principles of flags of United States and Virginia; Pledge of allegiance to American flag; guidelines developed by the Board.

Code of Va., § 22.1-202.1, as amended, Comparative religion as elective course.

Code of Va., § 22.1-203, as amended, Daily observance of one minute of silence.

Code of Va., § 22.1-203.1, as amended, Student initiated prayer.

Code of Va., § 22.1-203.2, as amended, Guidelines for constitutional compliance for student prayer.

Guidelines Concerning Religious Activity in the Public Schools, June 1995, Virginia Department of Education

 

Adopted by School Board: August 21, 1984
Amended by School Board:  August 21, 1990
Amended by School Board:  July 16, 1991
Amended by School Board:  July 13, 1993 (Effective August 14, 1993)
Amended by School Board: June 6, 2006