June 29, 20179 yr Haven't seen anyone post this and can't figure why? Either it's "under the radar," or "no one cares." Don't know if it will remain constitutional or not but it's worth a discussion I think. It seems one State Rep is trying to paint it as how the Bible relates to the establishment of the US. That's an interesting perspective. No doubt there are influences. But will the class say anything about John Locke? Age of Reason? Deist interpretation of the Bible? Kentucky to allow public schools to teach from the Bible | The Independent
June 29, 20179 yr Tricky situation IMO. On one hand, if they aren't offering classes on other religious holy books, I can see how it could be an issue. On the other hand, if it's an elective, no one has to take the class that doesn't want to, so they aren't forcing anyone to be subjected to it.
June 29, 20179 yr If the teachers can avoid making it a theological course I think Bevin is right in that there are lessons to be learned, whether you believe or not, but for some reason, I doubt it will be part of a nonsecular lesson plan.
June 29, 20179 yr If it's simply an analysis of religion and society then I don't see it being any different from other humanities courses (that would also include the critical perspectives that Hatz mentioned). If it's a class meant to proselytize a specific religious belief then it's unethical, inaccurate, and would certainly infringe on the First Amendment.
June 29, 20179 yr Author Tricky situation IMO. On one hand, if they aren't offering classes on other religious holy books, I can see how it could be an issue. On the other hand, if it's an elective, no one has to take the class that doesn't want to, so they aren't forcing anyone to be subjected to it. The interesting part will be when little Johnny comes home and talks about the Bible in some way or format that Mom and Dad disapprove of and don't believe themselves. Would make some interesting office discussion with the Principle.
June 29, 20179 yr Tricky situation IMO. On one hand, if they aren't offering classes on other religious holy books, I can see how it could be an issue. On the other hand, if it's an elective, no one has to take the class that doesn't want to, so they aren't forcing anyone to be subjected to it. This. I'm right there with you. The questions I have is who will teach this course. The Bible is interpreted a million different ways so when it comes to teaching about the Bible will the teacher be qualified to teach about the Bible? Does it have to be a certified teacher teaching the course or can a local pastor or deacon teach the course? I'd have some concerns about who is teaching my children about the Bible if they elected to take that course.
June 29, 20179 yr Does this pertain only to the Bible or can any holy text be taught from? I was finally able to pull up the article. The answer to my question is no.
June 29, 20179 yr Author I was finally able to pull up the article. The answer to my question is no. No, it pertains only to the Bible? Or No, any holy text can be mentioned?
June 29, 20179 yr Does this pertain only to the Bible or can any holy text be taught from? Yes but with SB17 who knows what may happen. Religious freedom. SB 17 specifies in statute that Kentucky public school and public colleges and university students have the legal right to express their religious and political views in their school work, artwork, speeches, and in other ways
June 29, 20179 yr No, it pertains only to the Bible? Or No, any holy text can be mentioned? Oops, sorry. Only the Bible can be taught.
June 29, 20179 yr Author Yes but with SB17 who knows what may happen. Religious freedom. SB 17 specifies in statute that Kentucky public school and public colleges and university students have the legal right to express their religious and political views in their school work, artwork, speeches, and in other ways That's quite the Pandora's box there. I answer an Essay question with: "The Bible tells me so." But the scholarship I use to deduce that conclusion is poor and refuted by years of accepted scholarship. Does a student say: I can say whatever MY BIBLE convictions are and you have to accept that as a correct answer. Hmmm. I knew a few students that way. They didn't do well in Seminary.
June 29, 20179 yr Author Oops, sorry. Only the Bible can be taught. That's a little precarious. I don't have a problem with the class addressing the role that Biblical principles played in the shaping of the discussion of America. But to totally ignore other influences is poor teaching the whole American story.
June 29, 20179 yr The interesting part will be when little Johnny comes home and talks about the Bible in some way or format that Mom and Dad disapprove of and don't believe themselves. Would make some interesting office discussion with the Principle. Bingo.:thumb:
June 29, 20179 yr Makes sense. Always thought it was odd that schools could sponsor and FCA club/group, but could not have any elective Theology courses of any kind.
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