19%	Yes
78.28%	No

Comment: THATS WHATS WRONG WITH THIS WORLD TRYING TO TAKE PRAYER AND GOD OUT OF THE SCHOOLS I ENJOYED THE OPPORTIUNITY TO HAVE PRAY WHEN I WAS IN SCHOOL OR NOT OUR MORALS WERE MUCH HIGHER THEN AND WE HAD MORE RESPECT FOR PEOPLE from BREWTON/AL. by ANN

Comment: it time to leave schools alone, let them teach good things, aclu would have schools teaching as much filth as possible. lets get back to what america is all about. from pensacola,fl by odis

Comment: This was a bad decision! Prayer should be allowed in school and anywhere it's needed. That's what's wrong with our kids today. No, guidance, No discipline, and No PRAYER! They will always be locked up or in some kind of trouble. They need Jesus. from Pensacola by Michelle

Comment: No one is forcing anyone else to pray. If someone does not agree with the prayer they can use the time as a moment of introspection or to make a to-do list. The whole idea of "being offended by prayer" has completely gotten out of control. I personally feel it is no coincidence that Santa Rosa County schools have far fewer problems than Escambia County schools. from Pace, FL by Michelle

Comment: Let's keep prayer in the home and in the church. What IS appropriate in the Public Schools is the Pledge of Allegiance!! from Shalimar by Alan

Comment: This time my husband and I both agree with the courts. Schools have no right to be forcing religion on any student. Now, prayer before a football game (voluntarily), Yes. A short prayer before graduation, yes. But, to be participated only by those people who want to. This is America...where we have the right to choose or not to choose which religion we want to participate in, and not be forced into what we don't want. from pensacola, florida by georgia

Comment: I have a sophomore who goes to Pace High School and am furious about two students being able to change a practice that has been instituted in schools for a long time. What about my constitutional rights for religion to be taught in school. I'm seriously considering home schooling now. from Pace, FL by Michael

Comment: anyone opposing the issue is anti Christ,and its whats happened to the Americas in its decline of morals,the ideals our forefathers based entire constitution ON..Faith in Our Creator. from milton by rhonda

Comment: this is not surprising coming from santa rosa co. the mentality for the people in that co. is that they are highly hostile for those not of the christian faith. i wonder how they would feel if another religion systimatically pushed their views upon their kids from the social foundation like the school system? i sure bet the kids would get a much better lesson of understanding of other people, cultures, and "inclusion of different views" from a buddhist point of view...rather than the isolationist policies of conservative christians... from p'cola fl by h

Comment: No, we should be allowed to have prayer conducted at school events. I do not feel the schools should try to convert students however, prayers should be permitted. TWO students should not be able to control our schools in this county. from Navarre, Florida by Martha

Comment: Prayer should be allowed in schools. from Crestview, FL by Robert

Comment: This Nation was founded on Bibical principals.The reason this nation is in the moral condition it is in is because it has forgotten God. from Pace, Fl by Donald

Comment: Yes it should be upheld. Religion is a personal issue and doesn't belong in schools or school activities. from Niceville by Tom

Comment: What the ACLU states is correct, parents, not public schools, have the right to control the religious education of their children. As a parent of Pace High Students, I demand that they be allowed to choose classes that teach religious principles and that prayer is allowed and exercised at extra-curricular activities. What ever happened to the communities ideals being part of the schools ideals? Why does the wants of a few override the will of the majority. from Pace, FL by P

Comment: First, I am a Christian and believe the Bible is the Word of God that all of us should study. Second, it is also a history book that has been proven to be true, therefore it worthy of being studied as history. Also, recently I read a letter to the editor in the paper that the schools should be teaching morals to the students. The Bible is the only book that teaches morals. from Pace, FL: by Rita

Comment: Santa Rosa County has one of the Highest rated School Systems in the United States and I believe that they must be doing something right in regards to the Students and Parents of this County. I firmly believe that this County has strong religious beliefs and that Prayer in our Schools are the reason that we have outstanding Faculty, Students and School Officials. God Bless those who will take a stand and God Bless our County. from Pace, Florida by Linda

Comment: We do not want our children to be subjected to a false belief. We want to be able to send our children to school to learn facts based on scientific studies not blind theories. Keep religion in the churches not our PUBLIC schools. from Pensacola by Gene

Comment: I do not agree with any judge taking away a student's first amendment rights. Freedom of Speech. Prayer is speech and any person has the right to pray anytime or anywhere. I hope that every student will just go to school and start praying anyway. No Judge ruling could stop them and the ACLU ( formly the American Communist Party) would have to leave town. Thank you. from Pace, Fl by James

Comment: I thank it is a disgrace to even consider taking GOD out of the schools or out of anything for that matter.It seems to me that america should notice the more weve removed GOD from our courtrooms and schools, the more weve suffered as a country.So i am 100,000% AGAINST the federal court taking prayer out of ANYTHING! And as far as casey rodgers, he should be stripped from his judical position,and never allowed to work anywere in this country for the rest of his life,as punishment for disgracing his name and his country! from robertsdale,AL by jared

Comment: It appears everyone has freedom other than Christians. from Pace, Fl by Tena

Comment: How can God help us if we keep taking him out of our lives??? God Bless America from Gulf Breeze, FL by Randy

Comment: Tax dollars go to support this school and because of two students, hundreds of students rights are being taken away. If I had children in Santa Rosa county schools, I would be very upset. This is not right! The two students should put on blinders and ear plugs. from Pensacola by Jay

Comment: it is a shame that our kids cannot have prayer at school in their lives.....what is our world coming to? I cannot remember a time the baccalaureate was not held at a church--I remember mine well and that was 1985..a its a treasure memory. why take away these events?? from Pace, FL by Cynthia

Comment: i do not believe that the court system should be allowed to tell people how or what to believe in or where they can practice their beliefs. more people need to pray and believe in GOD then this world might not be the shape it is in. from repton al by angela

Comment: It is a sad day for our children. by Renee

Comment: I think we should be able to express our religious beliefs without fear. I think the ACLU could spend its time on better projects than worrying about somebody getting "offended" about God! from Pensacola/FL by C

Comment: I think the people who are making this decision should not make our rights less than the other religions. They need to stop and leave the christians and bible believers ALONE!!!!!! from FL by Erin

Comment: This is clearly the right ruling. If parents arer so conserned with religious indoctrination, there are 8-9 hours per day outside of school available for this purpose. from Pensacola by Jim

Comment: If students at Pace wish to express their religious beliefs, they should have the right to do so. from Pace by Barbara

Comment: It i needed from Pensacola,Fla by Hazel C.

Comment: Once again the country takes a step away from the guiding principles and foundations of our nation. The ACLU (founded on communist principles) is deliberately undermining the values and rights established in our constitution, and this is just one more attack. Judge Rodgers needs to take a good long read at the constitution and some of the founding father's comments regarding separation of church and state. The Supremes got it wrong and now he has too. from Crestview, FL by P

Comment: While I agree that schools should not be in the business of promoting religion, neither should religious individuals have to repress their beliefs because they are in a public postion. #2. What happened to "majority rule" If the majority of Pace residents want religion in the school, then the 2 student who disagree should find somehwere else to go. 3. As long as "Bible Class is an elective, it should be offred.Finally, where else in North Santa Rosa County can you hold a large gathering, other than in an outdoor stadium, or in one of the large churchs. There is no where else. from Pace, Fl by Jeff

Comment: Every one of us WILL have to answer to God one day and those who oppose God will find themselves in a most painful situation that they will not be able to talk their way out of. WHY does the majority have to bow to the minority -- why do 2 students count more than the rest of the students?? from Milton, FL by Carol

Comment: I THINK THE JUDGE RULED ACCORDING TO THE LAW BUT THE LAW IS WRONG AND FOR A FEW STUDENTS THE WHOLE SCHOOL SUFFERS. THERE ARE MUCH WORSE THINGS TAUGHT IN SCHOOL AND RELIGION SHOULD BE VOLUNTEER. IF THE STUDENT DOES NOT WANT TO PARTICPATE HE SHOULD BE EXCUSED. WE NEED TO GET THE LAW CHANGED. from MILTON, FL by JEAN

Comment: I don't know enough to comment on the whole thing. What I will say, I am very disappointed that it came to this. Each student had/has a choice. So leave it at that. If my child choices to pray over her school/food or whatever, she has that right.I will support her all the way. Even she is unhappy with the decision. from Pace by LaVonda

Comment: Pace High School, does NOT require you as a student to participate in religion classes, it is an elective, so therefore you CHOOSE to take the class. Just like a religion class at PJC. As far as prayer, it is mostly at every event that you go to. And, even there people have the choice to participate or not. What will happen if another judge says that it alright? by M

Comment: we the peolpe should have the right to pray seek Gods word anytime any place, thats how it all started in the USA and is suppose to be our foundation in which we based everything on, we take GOD out and we have evil left in its place. I have read old news papers in the 1889 and if you were not a holy spirit filled man you could not or would not be in a office of authority. from miton by dana

Comment: If the one or two kids that didn't like it,they should have asked to be taken out of that class, or just not go to school there. The majority is being punished just so a couple can make the news. To hell with the ACLU and all their people. from Pensacola, Fl. by Otis

Comment: This country was founded by a group of people who wanted freedom to worship God and the freedom of the people is being taken away by a very few. I will be praying for the ACLU. from Pace, FL by Joanne

Comment: If a student is legally obligated to sit and listen to why homesexuals should be accepted (not just tolerated), then it is time that Christians stand up and preserve their rights, or they will loose them! Get off your apothetic parts people, and fight for what is right! This country was founded on Christian freedom of religion, not freedom from religion. That is why the pilgrams that landed here planted crosses, the christian symbol for Christ. from Pace, FL by Dee

Comment: why don't thney leave it alone like our forefathers founded our country on. God is still in control. from milton by laura

Comment: It is time for all laws to reflect the wishes of the majorities and just the few. from Milton by Terry

Comment: I think it's a terrible thing the government is taking God out of schools. That's why there's so much violence & drugs in the schools now.The UCLA should keep their butts out of the schools & everything else in this country. It would be abetter place if they would.The majority of people in Santa Rosa want's God in schools.Let those that don't go somewhere else & leave the majority alone. from Milton, FL by Billy

Comment: Separation of church and state...listening to someone else's religious beliefs while my child attends a public school is unacceptable, illegal, and very, very outdated in these times. SRSD has a terrible track record with this sort of thing, unfortunately: arrogant teachers, administrators, very conservative and religious right wingers who try to impose their lifestyles on students and parents with little regard or empathy or thought....as to what risks they run in attempting to do so. from Milton, FL by S.

Comment: I believe the school board with the parents permission should decide the matter not a lawer or judge who have no real connection to Santa Rosa County and the residents of Santa Rosa County. I believe the ACLU steped over the boundries of civil liberties long ago when they decided to "SAVE" us from our selves. I also believe since it is a public school belonging to the people of Santa Rosa County that the federal judges should have no say. They work "FOR THE PEOPLE" not inspite of the people. Like an unruley child the government ACLU are out of line. from Seminole by James

Comment: Schools are not the place for the promotion of any religion. This has long been well established in this country and the actions of certain Pace High School faculty were in direct defiance of the law. When you understand why you wouldn't like mandatory or expected participation in Islamic, Buddhist, or Wiccan practices, you'll understand why we non-Christians don't want Christianity pushed on our children. from Crestview FL by Bob

Comment: The school could very well make it where they allow every religion is reconsidered during the class.How could the ACLU complain as long as it is not a required class.It could be helpful if all religion's were taught to a small degree.Our people are uneducated on the subject of religion.Don't practice none just teach what they are about. from pace by Robert

Comment: God ST allways from Pace by Mcdonald

Comment: First off, we could use a reminder what the hwell they're talking about. Holding school extracirricular events at a venue that has greater capacity - even if it's a church - is not promotinfg a state religion. The First Amwendment does not say state and government can not work together. The First Amendment say goverment can not estasblish a state religion. Also - how is it different from the shopping malls and achools that are being forced to install footbaths in their resttrooms so Muslims can wash their feet before prayer? from Navarre, FL by Mort

Comment: CHRISTIANS HAVE RIGHTS ALSO. I AGREE IF SOMEONE DOES NOT WANT TO PARTICIPATE THEY HAVE THAT RIGHT. ONES WHO WANT TO PRAY SHOULD ALSO HAVE THAT RIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!! from MILTON,FL by RHONDA

Comment: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." That is the first of our Bill of Rights. Nowhere does it say anything about extreme prejudice against Christianity. But that seems to be the only thing the ACLU is interested in today. They want to remove any sign of God or Chistianity from the public sector. This right is written so that the U.S. government can never make a State Religion (like the Church of England.) Also, to allow people to practice their religion and even talk about it. (Perish the thought!) The students in Santa Rosa County have every right to pray or even talk about God if they want to. The ACLU wants to stop any mention of God or Christianity from our schools. School board employees are already restricted from praying or showing a preferance of one religion over another. (That alone is an infringment of their civil rights!) Look how much better things in our schools are now since regular prayer was taken out of our schools. Students are presented with no absolute right and wrong. Apparently, most students don't get much of that at home either. I know, gum chewing and running in the hallways was much worse than the problems we have now. A little violence, drug use, teen pregnancy, etc. are OK as long as no one has to hear that some things just shouldn't be done. And people wonder why there are so many problems in school today. from Cantonment, FL by Larry

Comment: IF THEY WOULD LET GOD BE KNOWN MORE IN SCHOOL AND IN ALL THAT WE DO THEN THE WORLD WOULD BE A BETTER PLACE TO LIVEAND RAISE OUR CHILDREN. from Brewton, AL by Judy

Comment: questions like these tend to give the opposition foder to call faith inspired people foolish and dismiss them. Of course they are right on the letter of the law, but there is more to it than the letter of the law when it comes to religion and faith. from Milton, Florida by ae

Comment: I strongly support the court decision. Religion has no place in public schools. from Pace by Brad

Comment: Judeo Christians have no objection as long as they're conversions are to their Christian beliefs. What happens if teachers decide to convert students to Judism,Buddahism Islam or any of the many non mainstream religions. oh yes, church and state are seperate and they'd want a judge to enforce it. from milton/fl by ronald

Comment: Here is another sad example of the courts and the ACLU taking away our constitutional rights to free speech and religious expression. The ruling came despite the fact that most religious expression on campus is entirely VOLUNTARY and student-led as the statutes require. What is next? from Milton, FL by Jonathan

Comment: I feel sorry for the two students, the ACLU lawyer and Judge Casey Rodgers. One day they will have to give account in front of the only judge that counts, Jesus Christ. I hope before that time comes they have repented and changed their way's. It is time for Christians to stand up and be heard as we have become too silent and too tolerant. from Pensacola, FL by Robin

Comment: It seems that we have evolved to society where the good of the one far outweighs the good of the many. Please refresh my memory...where in the Constitution does it give the rights only to the few and take it away from the masses? Animal House...read it, I bet it is not required reading anymore, but it sure sounds like where we are today. from Gulf Breeze, FL by Harrold

Comment: The reality is this... Most parents in today's society instill NO moral foundations into their children. I am a teacher and each year the behaviors get worse and worse. Most kids these days do NOT know the difference between right and wrong. I will never send my own kids to public school and if a lot of parents knew of the bad behaviors going on in their child's classroom each day, they wouldn't either. It's time we get back to acknowleding that there IS a God and we ARE judged by our actions. Until then, yes... our school will be rampant with suicide, shootings, unwanted pregancies, illegal drug use, and the list goes on. And all of this because of TWO students? I wish the big bad ACLU would come into my classroom for a week... They'd be on their knees begging Jesus to have mercy before noon on Monday! from Alabama by Adrian

Comment: We need a superitendent with a back bone to stand up to the ACLU. What will become of our youth from Pace Florida by Barbara

Comment: No prayer or religion should be promoted in public schools period. This is the only way to be fair and equal to everyone, not to mention it is LAW. from Fort Walton Beach by Gary

Comment: That this should even be an issue suggests that our schools need to spend less time praying and more time teaching the US Constitution. from Pace by Susan

Comment: I disagree with the Federal Courts decision, two students complain, majority want prayer in schoool. Our country was founded on Religion. from Milton, FL by Lisa

Comment: Separation of church and state is meant to keep the government out of the churches and churches out of government, which includes secular schools. Forcing particular religious teaching on students of varying religious beliefs is inconsistent with a free society. from Pensacola FL by Kurt

Comment: ACLU needs to find and get a real problem other than 2 students who probably are outcast in there venue and just want to start problems from Gulf Breeze by John

Comment: Christians are having their rights impeded on by taking away being able to put God first. We want our educational system to improve yet we continue draining God out of it. Is there any wonder things are not improving?! The US was built upon religion...it is and always will be One Nation Under God. from Pensacola/Florida by Summer

Comment: Of course the opinions of the minority are always considered as more important than the majority by the Supreme Court & ACLU. That's one of the problems with our Judeo/Christian nation these days - we're not allowed to give honor to God who created us. from Pace/FL by M

Comment: What about our rights as a christian that are being violated by taking away our right to pray? from Crestview, FL by Connie

Comment: We have to endure a small amount of peoples non belief in God and Religion. I find it very unfair that we can voice our opinion against war. We can braodcast throughout the country indesretions of a president and the beautiful people in Hollywood but we CAN'T learn about God in our school. Where is the justice and the freedom of speach in that? from Pensacola/ Fl by Kay

Comment: I am very disappointed that the court has taken away the right for prayer in school. Court is so worried about stepping on a few toes to listen to what the majority wants. from Pace, FL by Michelle

Comment: Generations of students were raised on the three "R,s", the pledge of allegiance and a morning prayer. Our troubles seem to have started when these were set aside by verdicts usually instigated by the ACLU. But, no matter what the ACLU does I know this - AS LONG AS THERE ARE TESTS IN SCHOOLS THERE WILL BE PRAYER. from Ft Walton Beach, Fl by Jim

Comment: I HAVE 2 GRANDSONS IN PACE HIGH SCHOOL AND BELIEVE THAT A LITTLE PRAYER NEVER HURT ANYONE WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO THE MAJORITY RULES. IT SEEMS WE HAVE ONE PERSON THAT SITS AND JUDGES WHAT WE CAN SAY AND DO.. WISE UP SCHOOLS WENT DOWN HILL WHEN PRAYER WAS TAKEN OUT OF SCHOOL from PACE FL by AGNES

Comment: The ACLU are nothing but a bunch of liberals. This country was founded on Biblical principals

Comment: I do believe in God, but don't go to Church. I do think Pace goes too far if they are in fact trying to "convert" students... However, anyone should be allowed to pray to anything or anyone. It's not going to hurt anyone by being silent if they don't want to pray. The big problem is that people on both sides don't seem to be tolerant of others... and those goes to both sides of this issue. from Pace by Greg

Comment: Very sad that the minority (ie 1 parent comlpaining) can change what an entire school does. Our country has forgotten how we were founded. from Pensacola, FL by Andrea

Comment: I am appauled that we have come to this...America, who was founded on the Word of God now forbids it in their schools? I guess we haven't had enough shootings and murders in our schools and colleges for people to wake up and realize...you take God out of the schools, and it will continue to only get worse, and maybe, it will be one of your children and who will you turn to???? from Foley, AL by Nancy

Comment: Prayer in school does not constitute as state religion, the American Communist Lawyers Union is not the hope for our kids. Jesus Christ is. from Navarre, Fl by Tommy

Comment: It is sad that the opinion of a few should determine the fate of something that the majority of our county stands for. When you question what has gone wrong with our children these days, rest assured that the answer is that we have chosen to exclude God from our daily lives. We have made our children feel ashamed and embarrassed to stand for what they believe in. Our country was founded through strong beliefs in God and we need to get back to the basics of life with Him being at the top of that list! from Pace, FL by a concerned mother

Comment: This you probably can't but on TV but I did want to get my two cents worth in. What is this world coming to when it is wrong to have God in schools but you can have a book for kids to read with explicit detail of an eleven year old boy being raped. I don't believe you should try to convert students but you should be allowed to pray if that is your belief. After all doesn't Freedom of Religion work both ways. from Fort Walton Beach, FL by Debra

Comment: I am not happy about this decision. I am very angry about them stopping prayer and Biible reading in the schools. Without God our country will fall apart, just like it already is. God is the only God and there is no other. I am a very strong Christian and I am proud to say it. Blessings will not come without God in our lives. By taking God out of the schools, you are restricting the religious freedom of Christians and that is not right. You allow others to pray to buddah and mohammad, but a Christian can't pray to God, now that is wrong. God said "It is mine to avenge. I will repay says the Lord." For all who turn against God, one day they will weep before Him and there only fate at that point is Hell and the Lake of Fire. from Pensacola, Fl by Amber

Comment: Taking GOD and prayers out of our schools and other public functions is whats wrong with this world now. We always had prayer and pledge to the allegiance everyday in school and our generation is 100% more respectful than our present generation. from pace, fl by sharon

Comment: EVERY PARENT IN THE SANTA ROSA SCHOOL DISTRICT SHOULD FILE SUIT AGAINST THE ACLU AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IF PRAYER IS TAKEN OUT OF SCHOOL. IT IS ALSO EVERY STUDENTS RIGHT TO PRAY. IF PRAYER IS STOPPED, IT VIOLATES EVERY STUDENTS RIGHT TO PRAY IN SCHOOL OR AT SCHOOL FUNCTIONS. THE ACLU NEEDS TO BE ABOLISHED. from ATMORE, AL by JOANNA

Comment: Religion has NO place in schools or politics. This country has too much overlap and it is not legal by our constitution. If the religious zealots want to participate in schools or politics they neeed to start paying taxes like anyone else. from Milton, FL by Donald

Comment: I thought the constitution gives us the right to freedom of speech and freedom of religion. So it would be anti-American to NOT allow prayer at School functions. The ACLU seems to be taking American rights away instead of enforcing them. from Milton by Robert

Comment: Children need to be encouraged not only physically and academically, but also spiritually. Holding prayer encourages this healthy part of growth towards adulthood. America is now suffering from increasing sexual problems, drug use, violence, and more because we have lost the principles on which we were founded, which included faith in God. from Gulf Breeze/FL by Eva

Comment: its not the school district's place to promote prayer and religion at school functions. from milton/fl by tome

Comment: I do not agree at all. I have had 2 of my children attend pace with one graduating in 2006 and NEVER have we EVER felt pressured to participate in prayer or religious activity on campus. If the students at the school wish to lead prayer they should be able to, you ALWAYS have the CHOICE to not participate. Students who were in the religion class CHOSE to take the class. from Pace,FL by April

Comment: While I applaud every person's right to practice their chosen religion, I do not believe they should be permitted to proselytize in our public schools or school events. I have no problem with permitting silent prayer for students to use as they individually see fit, nor do I have any problem with a course in world religions for high school students, but I do not favor the majority pushing their beliefs on any minorities. from Pensacola/Florida by Rick

Comment: There is a time and place for everything. Public schools exist for the education of our youth, not as a church extension. It isn't fair for any religious minorities at that school, or to those who want nothing to do with such activity. from Pensacola by E

Comment: Just another of our "freedoms" that we are in jeopardy of loosing. Students/teachers are not forced to pray, they can choose not to. But those who would like to pray should be given that priviledge. All religions are welcome and promoted by the ACLU... except Christianity... why are they so afraid of Christians having a voice? from Pensacola, FL by Cindy

Comment: isn't it amazing that a book (kite runner) that tells of graphic rape of young boys is ok for our schools but the bible is not..but I see their point..who wants their child taught not to lie, steal, murder or to honor your mother & father..we cannot have that..we must protect our children!!! from Gulf Breeze, Fl by Randiy

Comment: When proberably more than 90 % of the population favor prayer, why is it that the wishes of the 10 % or less are forced upon the masses ? from Milton,FL. by Paul

Comment: If you don't want to participate in the prayer portion of it, then don't. It is as simple as that. Two students are making a decision for the majority that absolutely do not have a problem with it. What about their rights? Nobody held a gun to the students heads and said "you must pray." I am sick and tired of a few taking away the rights of many. We need to call ourselves the United States of the Offended instead of the United States of America. I guess the two complaining got exactly what they wanted-ATTENTION! from Milton, Florida by Anjeanette

Comment: This is what is partly the problem with young kids today they are not being brought up as the Bible says. I see no problem with a 2 minute max prayer being said. Those who do not want to participate do not have to but it should not be took away from those of us who do want it. from Jay,Florida by Wendy

Comment: I think it is absolutely absurd that a christian cannot practice their belief. Why is it that we are being punished. If you or anyone does not want to pray, then dont, but dont take away our right, and this is exactly what's happening. The class on the bible,is an elective, not required,so if your child does not want to take the class,guess what, they dont have to. What rights do christians have any more? Everytime someone feels like their religion,beliefs are being trampled on, the christians seem to get the most dirt on them. GOD BLESS!!!Not GOD LESS!!!!!!!! from pace by pam

Comment: I believe in separation of church and state. With all the diversity we have in our schools, we need to respect everyone's religious beliefs and viewpoints. from Pensacola by Lnda

Comment: I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the Santa Rosa school district decision as well as the school board's and superintendent's reported support of it as "the right thing to do." The timing of this lawsuit was not accidental...it was filed as the district faces current and imminent budget cuts and can ill afford to contest it in court. These are typical ACLU tactics, which promote neither liberty nor civility. The real problems I have are that legal precedent across the nation supports voluntary prayer in schools, and our elected administration appears to have rolled over and caved in to ACLU pressure rather than stand and fight for the rights of ALL students, and not just those who desire to avoid exposure to religion. This decision and the policies that will inevitably result cannot stand up the full scrutiny of the First Amendment, which forbids laws that inhibit the free exercise of religion (the part that most of our courts like to pretend isn't there!) from Navarre by Greg

Comment: All of the prayer at Pace High School is completely OPTIONAL. The Baccalaureate is optional, prayer at graduation is optional, the student run "Christian" organizations are optional... Students are NOT forced to participate in prayer at any level. In my four years at Pace, the only class I ever heard of actually talking ABOUT the Bible was the Bible History class. I come from a very nonreligious background and I never felt pressured or uncomfortable by anyone or anything at PHS. I think it would have been reasonable to request that the prayers be given as nondenominational, but a prayer can be a moment of silence or simply praying to whichever god(s) you choose. It's your choice to pray or not pray, to say "one nation, under God" or to not say it. If you feel uncomfortable, just don't participate. It worked just FINE for me for the four years I spent there, and I loved Pace High! from Pace, FL by L

Comment: I dont agree with the Fed Govt. ruling on ANY school to prohibit prayer or religion at school functions. This country was founded on Christianity and God is our maker and this should be advanced in the education of our children NOW. The ACLU is a minority and we are letting minorities rule our lives and this has to stop! from Pns, Fl by Sandra

Comment: I Believe that our rights are being violated by taking our childrens choice to pray or have religion at school functions. If your child does not wish to, that's their right, but DON'T TAKE IT AWAY FROM THOSE WHO Do. We should have a choice too. It is not being forced on anyone! What ever happened to Majority decides? What kind of judge can rule to do this??? from Pace by C

Comment: Our nation was founded on christianity. It is part of our history and part of our heritage. I am sorry our schools have chosen to buckle under to the liberal ACLU's bullies. As for me and my house we will serve the Lord. from Navarre, Florida by Barbara

Comment: It is OK to promote the false belief of Evolution in schools but not the truth of the Bible. The ACLU is hypocritical and only wants their BELIEFS taught. It is time to stand up to the ACLU and let them know they are wrong and that they fight against what is right. The ACLU promotes atheism (that is their belief and therefore their religion), So maybe the director of litigation should say, parents, not the public schools, have the right to promote the belief that there is no God to their children. from Pensacola/Florida by John

Comment: Our schools teach many subjects that mold our children into responsible adults. It is regretful that promoting religion is taboo subject within the public school system. I would like to imagine that if it were perhaps different, we would find a world with a little more religious tolerance. from Pace, Florida by Ricardo

Comment: Religious persecution by two forcing their beliefs on the majority. This is not what our founding Fathers had in mind. Separation of Church and State Does not exsist in any founding document and therefore is an invalid argument. by Jeremy

Comment: I definitely do not agree with the ruling. I do not believe that Santa Rosa Schools were forcing religion on any student. I believe that this ruling violates the rights of all Santa Rosa County students who want prayer / religion in school. Having it available does not force it on anyone - prohibiting it because a few choose not to participate violates the rights of many! from Pace, FL by Tammy

Comment: I have Raised 2 sons in Pace and both have stayed on the right path, Youngest son is chief of Operations for Lifeguard Ambulance service in Santa Rosa county at 30 years old . Oldest son is a Paramedic for Escambia County Both was in the Fellow Christian Athletic Association at Pace High School and Pace High has always had high standards,, Prayers or silent prayer have always been a part of The Pace community functions, games or gathering.This only shows how we are allowing the minority to control the environment our Santa Rosa County children are exposed to. I feel we should all take a stand to keep the Standards of raising our children and grandchildren as it has been since the beginning of the Pace community We are Very proud of our community and most of our children have become very well adjusted successful Adults from Milton by Deborah

Comment: Our fore fathers DID mean for religion to be taught in schools and to be included in our Constitution, Bill of Rights and our way of life. They were taught from the 'Old Blue Back' of 1783 by none other than Noah Webster. God was taught from the beginning to the end of this Blue Back Speller. Also, they were taught from 'The New-England Primer' by Edward Draper of 1777. God is referenced in the Pre amble of every state's constitution. Our fore fathers did not want the Roman Catholic Church to take over our Government; they NEVER intended to keep religion out of Government or our schools. The ACLU just doesn’t want to take a second seat to God!!! But they will someday, it is appointed unto all men to die. I thank God that my parents had brains in their heads. These slick tongue ACLU lawyers best get on board that long black train because they aren't smart enough to get to Heaven by theirself. Amen. from Milton, Florida by Lawrence

Comment: no. from Milton/fl by NEAL

Comment: It's time to let the majority decide. After all, that is what this country was built on... from navarre/florida by glen

Comment: There are to many different religions and practices. Nobody should be made to be taught or practice something they do not believe in. If they are going to teach it as a class they should cover as many religions as possible, but not practice them. from milton/florida by pj

Comment: Religion has played a part since the birth of our nation. I understand that not everyone is religious, however prayer should not be taken away. If you are not a believer, than don't participate in prayer. from Fort Walton Beach by Jennifer

Comment: I definitely do not agree with this decision. As a former student of Pace High and the Bible class, I can attest to the fact that we were never "proselytized." In addition, churches are the only venue large enough to host the baccalaureate services in Santa Rosa county and they often provide this service at a minimal fee (contrary to the fees at the civic center). Our new superintendent ran on the basis that he was a Christian, why didn't he stand up and let the silent majority's voice be heard? from Pace, FL by Jennifer

Comment: Regarding the Violation of teaching Biblical History at Pace H.S.( which is really what the course is), there is a violation of the first Ammendment for the students and parents who WANT this course and have ELECTED to take this course voluntarily. For the two studetns who have the ACLU on their sde, the 99% of the students body are having their rights violated by not having this course. This matter is a violation of the right of speech in America and for some one to make allegations that this is illegal is ludecris. It had come to the point where prayer should be a lart of the daily introduction as the Pledge of Allegiance is. People who object to this can sit and not be a part of which excercises their right in America.Since prayer has been obliterated from the schools, morality has been in a sharp decline and it is up to the parents to encourage values and Faith in the home and everyday life.If this rule goes down, I will be in Tallahassee protesting this action in pace High School.It is unconstitutional NOT to have this course taught for History and Socail Science Reasons. Jim Bege from Pensacola/Florida by Jimmy

Comment: I absolutely don't agree with this. Our country was founded on "Christian" religion--the King James Bible and that is why our country is one of the, if not the most, blessed countries in the world.That is also why our Santa Rosa County schools have risen so high in test scores and why so many people, I believe, are moving to Santa Rosa County...the schools here are great because there may still be prayer in some.I think they should take a vote (the democratic way) and see what the majority wants.Then those that don't want prayer can either move or be quiet about it. It is a sad shame when two people's complaints can change a whole county.I believe at least 80%-90% of people would want to go back to the better way of life when prayer was allowed in school and the bible. The ACLU needs a lot of prayer...one day they will see why prayer is so important. Other countries don't change their beliefs and policies because there are a few who want things changed and neither should the great U.S.A. It is time to stop being politically correct and go back to what our country was founded on, to quit changing history books to books that are false, and quit teaching evolution at all because it is completely proven to be false. We need to stand up for our rights and let the majority rule. from Jay/FL by Lori

Comment: The ACLU didn't win. You can't win if there is no battle. The SRC School Board laid down and groveled at their feet. All of this because of MONEY. As a resident of SRC, parent of SRC school children & SRC voter, I am disgusted. We are the best school system in FL for a reason. God blesses those who honor Him. There have been baccalaureate services at graduations in SRC & Esc Cty for a very long time-over 30 yrs at least. Why is this just now a problem? How many of you have had to sit on those uncomfortable little seats in the Sims Middle cafeteria? I did for the Christmas concert this year. The reason they used churches is because churches were the only ones willing to give them use of their facilities for FREE. I wouldn't care if the concert was held at a Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist or any other place of worship because a band concert is not a religious event. Who cares besides those who are trampling on my civil rights? Christians have the least civil rights of anyone in this country. from Pace, FL by Charissa

Comment: what a sad day , the 2 students who caused all this with the help of the aclu can stop the other students right to and freedom of religion ,what will happen next.our nation was founded on Jesus Christ ,its a fact and history.they didn't hurt anyone they were praying. from milton,fl. by carla

Comment: I don't think that the courts have anything to do with the situation. PERIOD. Let's look at it this way; FREEDOM OF RELIGION infers that one must be able to choose his or her own religion: ergo, how the hell is one supposed to practice religious freedom if one doesn't know what the concept of religion is? The American Communist Lawyers Union has no regard for ANYONE having any religious tolerance at all. The court system in this country is being used to promote the non-education of our youth. Let's get it together folks. from Mary Esther, FL. by Tom

Comment: Religion should be taught at home and in church , not in schools. from Milton, FL by George

Comment: PLEASE KEEP PRAYERS IN OUR SCHOOLS!!!! from Jay, Fl by Brenda

Comment: We need to keep God in all things from McDavid/Fl by Darla

Comment: Childrn see and hear so much bad stuff at school and that doesn't seem to bother anybody! So why does prayer upset everybody so. Afraid their children will learn something good for a change! from McDavid Fl by Lorene

Comment: if all the parents were ask i think that most all would suport it tell the aclu to ask the parents i f all the parents were ask i from jay fl by wally

Comment: I have a very big problem understanding why the courts decide to take away the rights of the moral majority, in favor of the imoral minority. What about our rights to have our children learn about right & wrong and moral & imoral? What justifies taking away my rights to satisfy someone else? If they don't want to participate in religous practice, have a class for the atheists and let the moral majority practice our freedom. from destin, fl by john

Comment: Officials of the Santa Rosa County School Board Should be allowed to continue any practices regarding religion they wish. The students are not forced to do these things. There are also equal opportunities for students to practice whatever religion they want and have use the school facilities for meetings involving that religion. There is not anything keeping other religions from having something such as a club that meets at the school. The only thing is that there is only one religion that is prominent in Santa Rosa County. from Milton, FL by Ralph

Comment: Okay enough is enough. Prayer at sporting events or graduation is fine. This has been a common practice for many of years. No one is making anyone pray. If they don't wish to pray, they can just stand there and think about something. Just be respectful. Not only are they attempting to remove prayer from schools, but the saying IN GOD WE TRUST. This has been on money for 100 of years. Time to let things be. Next they will want to make everyone believe in what they believe, which is everything but GOD. from Mary Esther, FL by Alan

Comment: If we would allow Jesus in our schools we would not have the violance that we now have in our schools. from Milton, Fl. 32570 by Karen

Comment: MY CHILDREN ATTEND A SANTA ROSA COUNTY SCHOOL AND I BELIVE THAT PRAYER SHOULD BE ALLOWED. IF PRAYER WAS SAID BEFORE EACH DAY BEGAN OUR WORLD WOULD BE A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE. from PACE, FLORIDA by JENNIFER

Comment: I think that the whole thing about keeping GOD out of anything is a shame. He is the reason that we all live and breath and if someone doen't agree or like to hear or see of anything to do with the Lord Jesus Christ then maybe they should turn their head and or close there ears. This is the United States of America the land of the FREE. If a school chooses to promote prayer and or religion then more power to them.. If we had more beleivers in this world then maybe things could get better as far as the violece and hate that we see everday in this world. God should be the main focus is everyones lives and if he is not then God have mercy on your soul. from Pace, Florida by Lundy

Comment: It's quite rediculous. Kids should get to chose for themselves. If they want an FCA or prayer in schools, then let them have it. Don't let 2 bad apples spoil the bunch. from milton/FL by a

Comment: I think this is the downfall of our schools.....taking prayer out. I was raised in the woodpile and I have no regrets because of it. In fact, that is probably where I learn to pray. from Pensacola by Susie

Comment: My son graduated from Pace High School and now attends PJC. I was very impressed with the schools ability to honor the rights of the children who have strong religious backgrounds and beliefs without harming those of apposing values. It is a sad state that our country is in to cater to the rights of one or two and totally disrespect the rights of many. I have not witnessed where these students were in anyway forced to accept or participate. Leave the school district or they must prefer to attend this school as this is where they attend school. We have been forced to transfer our children to Private Christian Schools because of this very thing. Is there not a school where these "special" needs can be met?? Proof is in the whole student body of Santa Rosa School districts. Higher levels of education, greater school participation and better behaved children. Take religion totally out and see what you get. from pensacola, fl by stephanie

Comment: I am so thankful that my 3 children are able to attend a Private Christian school! People need to do their research and see what America was founded on. If they don't like it, they need to move to another country!!!! from Jay by Hazeydaze

Comment: Our country was founded with God in our lives, our daily actions, on our money, our government buildings, and in every aspect of being an American... all separation of church and state referred to was NO Pope, Bishop or other religous person was to counter or order any legislative or executive action, ACLUis WRONG in all they do!!!! from Milton by Robert

Comment: Those who want to keep religion in schools & other public venues are typically conservative Christians. Are they any different from the Muslims who teach their own brand of religion in middle Eastern schools? Our country promises freedom of religion, which means my freedom from your brand of religion. Do what your New Testament preaches and keep your prayers in private place. from Pensacola FL by Sue

Comment: that the trouble with the world today. people are trying to take GOD out of everything. america as a whole has forgotten GOD.the bible says the nation that forget GOD they will be forgotten by gerry

Comment: No, I graduated from Pace High, and I think it's a shame that it has come to this. We're a Nation founded on God, and this is just another sign of the times. from Milton by April

Comment: I do not agree. I believe religion is what has made Santa Rosa School District so good. Teacher's don't preach to students, but pray and advise with those who ask. It is really a shame that two students' rights can outweight the rights of everyone else. Our faculty use to pray together, even that has stopped, what a shame! from Navarre by Debra

Comment: Freedom of Religion is paramount to our enjoyment of all the other freedoms our Constitution was drafted to protect. from Pace, FL by Travis and Luz

Comment: GOD gives us life, & everything else we need. This would not be the time to take him out of anything! Thank- GOD for students & teachers who pray and give GOd Praise. There is nothing wrong with prayer at a sports event. When I went to school we had prayer at the beginning of each day. I am better for it. No harm done at all. Thank-you. from Milton, Fl by Ruby

Comment: How can the desires of two people be the law in a democracy? Prayer is the rule at our presidential inauguration for millions. from Gulf Breeze by Janice

Comment: In the same week, one school district is told they COULD continue teaching a book that has inappropriate content and material to children, AND another is told they can't pray, discuss religious beliefs or hold graduations at religious facilities. What is wrong with this picture? We can talk about age inappropriate material with children, but not things that this country was founded on? This ruling will be the degradation of the Santa Rosa County school system. Shame on you, Susan Watson of the ACLU. Christian children and parents have rights too! from Milton, Florida by Bill

Comment: As a teacher in Santa Rosa County I was devestated when I was told we can no longer pray with our students or appear to be praying or mention anything that has anything to do with religion. I often have students asking me to pray for their family members or for them when they have important tests etc. I would never impose my beliefs on a student. It is the duty of the parent to see to their childs religous upbringing according to the Bible. Somewhere somebody forgot that the first textbook was the Bible. God Bless Santa Rosa County because we are going to need His blessing. from Milton by Linda

Comment: why penalize the whole school because two students don't want to pray. It's not about prayer - it's about a group wanting to take away our freedom of religion. This country was founded on freedom of religion and if they don't like it - let them leave it. from Pensacola, Fl by Hilda

Comment: You can't "make" someone pray, so how is having prayer infringing on someone else's rights. However, by banning prayer you are infringing on my rights! from Pace, FL by Angela

Comment: The ACLU (Anti CHRISTian Luciferic Union, as I call it) historically bash Christian rights. It is interesting that you never see them in state run universities sueing professors for pushing their anti-christian beliefs on their christian students. Just because you are a teacher you still should have freedom of speech and it should be protected. from Loxley by Tony

Comment: aclu needs to mind its own business. those that don't want to pray don't have to. sad we punish the majority for the small minority of persons that feel slighted!! from milton, fl by richard

Comment: if you want to know what people are thinking, go to pensacola's craigs list, Rant ans Rave, it says it all

Comment: There are many religous beliefs, Sudents should go to their own churches and not force one religion on the rest of the student body from Mary Esther Florida by Joseph

Comment: Public schools are for teaching math, science, history, english,etc. If students (or their parents) want a religious education, they need to go to a church based school or go to church on Sundays. It is not up to a tax based school system to support, teach or fund religious education from Mary Esther, Fl by Deanna

Comment: This ruling is inconsistant with traditional practices of our government. We see prayer at the inauguration of the president. It is common in the house and senate. The military has had praying chaplains for centuries. And, this nation was established as a praying nation. It seems no one has rights in the U.S., but the ACL. We should remember this when we vote. from Pensacola, FL by Don

Comment: God is not kept out of the schools, nobody is prevented from prayer. But teachers, staff members and administrators are not supposed to lead students in prayer or to push their religious point of view. I love the schools here, they are great! But I've noticed this need some have to push religion, particularly the Christian brand, on students. They mean well, but it is not the place. from Milton by Pagan Parent

Comment: I don't see how people can say that we are trying to convert people to christianity or pressure others into praying. You have the choice to pray or not to pray. I shouldn't have my rights taken away just because you don't agree. from Milton by Jess

Comment: As a proud graduate of Pace High School (reminder:one of the top performing schools in the state!), I would like to tell Principal Frank Lay, THANK YOU! You are a good, decent , moral man who set an outstanding example of what a man should be in this world! Frank Lay has done nothing but promote a loving, caring environment where students flourished. I didn't agree all the rules while there, why I would have loved to wear that mini-skirt to school, but now I know as a productive member of society , it wasn't in my best interest! Mr. Lay nor the teachers promoted their religions, they promoted good moral character. Was I offended when graduation festivities were held at churches that I think are completely off-base religiously with my own personal spiritual beliefs? NO!because I have sense enough to see it wasn't done to promote religion, but because it was a venue that provided more comfortable seating for all! Who wants to sit on a concrete bench in hot stadium when you can sit on a cushioned bench in the air condition a few hours? I am sorely disappointed in the ACLU. The school district only conceded because it was costing so much money to defend. It is simply a shame. from Pace, FL by Lynn

Comment: I Strongly disagree with this. If a student, teacher or anyone else does not want to participate in prayer, fine just do not keep everyone else from enjoying their freedom. I am sure we can all reach a middle of the road, if we just try. from Milton, FL by Sheryl

Comment: What happens to all the other kids rights. There are christian students in our school district and they are losing their rights. from Milton, FL by Wanda

Comment: As a 1998 graduate of Pace High School, anger does not even begin to describe what I feel over a federal judge’s decision to halt promotion of prayer and religious influence in Santa Rosa schools (“Schools Ordered to Stop Prayer” by Carmen Paige, Tuesday, January 13, 2009). Fury is perhaps a more accurate description. That this decision was brought about in part by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), an organization which has no connection to or familiarity with Pace’s traditions and way of life is perhaps the most galling factor in this outcome. Instead of allowing the students and faculty members to come together and decide for themselves democratically whether or not prayer and religious activity should be promoted in school, the ACLU apparently took it upon themselves to file suit against Pace High School and the school district on behalf of two students (out of over one-thousand) and tell the rest of us what we should do. Some may argue that the measure only applies to Santa Rosa County school officials and district employees and therefore does not prohibit students from organizing religious activities. The problem with this logic is that students need the approval of faculty and school administrators in order to organize anything. I know this from having led a lunch-hour Bible study during my senior year at Pace High. Until the principal signed off on what I wanted to do, I was not permitted to as much as put up a poster on the school walls announcing the activity. Thus, under this new injunction handed down by the court, if an administrator so much as grants permission to a student organization for starting a Bible study or prayer meeting on campus, that action could potentially be interpreted by a judge as “promoting” religion and that administrator would be in violation of the law. The judge’s decision effectively ties the hands of not just employees and administrators, but of anyone wishing to promote prayer and religious influence in Santa Rosa County schools. This is judicial tyranny, plain and simple, and it must be opposed not just where religious issues are concerned but everywhere. At the end of the day these kinds of decisions must be left in the hands of the people, in this case the students and faculty, and not in the hands of activist litigators from elsewhere in the state. Otherwise, what results is the erosion of freedom (religious and otherwise), lawsuit by lawsuit and judicial fiat by judicial fiat. The people of Santa Rosa County must be proactive in the face of this type of legal bullying. We must petition our leaders to sponsor initiatives that will limit the power of this judge’s ruling as well as protect the school district and ourselves against ones like it in the future. And as responsible citizens, we must always stay informed about and vigilant of potential threats to our freedom and religious heritage. Our future and that of generations to come depend on it. from Pace, FL by John

Comment: pace high school students can make a choice either they want to promote religious activites or not. If the students can go around cursing and showing their midrifs and their butts "sagging" then christan students can go around with a bible and testify and show that christanity isn't bad. from pace/fl by Lavena

Comment: you know some people are making such a fuss about a good thing,is the bible such a bad thing to bleave in. some don't wont the bible to be tought but let something bad happen to one of there family members or the country and then everyone wonts someone to pray for them and there love ones. i will continue to pray for all of you even if you don't beleave, if you don't beleave then just over look it , it will not hurt you it's not a curse. from milton fla by eunice

Comment: I do not agree. I believe it was who ever wanted to do the class or what ever. I don't understand these people. I have a nephew that has been deployed 3 times. These soldiers fight for us and our ways and our freedom. Do you not think that they don't pray. They ask for our prayers that they return home safe to their love ones and family. So if these people want to have prayer and they are not messing with anyone and its of there choose so be it, leave theese kids and our schools alone. thank you from gulf breeze by jamie

Comment: I think the ACLU has done everything in their power to ruin religion. The ACLU and dumb U.S. District Judges have done everything possible to ban religion. They have mis-interpeted the constitution to fit their agenda and the Christians sit back and say nothing. Wake-Up! We can't even say Christmas, Thanksgining in most stores without the threat of being fired. They call them "holidays". Sickning! from Pensacola by Amy

Comment: should not have mandated prayer, but also should not discourage students from praying by knuckle

Comment: This is our county, our kids, our taxes...ACLU, stay out of our business. from Pace FL by Florence

Comment: This country was based on religious freedom for "everyone", not limited to Bible Belt fundamendalist Christians. What if before a football game, the coach recited Muslin prayers with the players. The guy would be lynched. from Navarre FL by Ann

Comment: I agree with the ruling. Practicing any religion at a public school should not be allowed. from Gulf Breeze, FL by Seletta

Comment: I can't believe that we are letting a couple people dictate to a majority what we can do in OUR schools. The ACLU are not paying the taxes for our schools, we are, therefore, we should be able to have a say in our schools. from Pace, Fl. by Louise

Comment: The court did as it should which was to follow the law. Schools are no place for religion. The First Amendment guarantees that government has no role in promoting any religion. It is time for the churches ad religion to release the stranglehold on progress that they have in Santa Rosa County. People should be free to do as they choose. That is what America is about-- freedom. That includes freedom from being forced to endure state sponsored religion. from Pace, FL by DC

Comment: I heard a (TRUE) but cute saying one time..."So long as there are tests in school there will be prayer!" from Crestview by Cathy

Comment: No I dont agree with taking prayer out of school, kids&the parents these days need more prayer,and God , I dont care what anyone says my children wiil pray and worship God at school or where ever they want ,no one can tell us defrent ,if I want to pray at church or in public I will , if they was to lock me up for my kids praying to God I & they will still Pray that God will work on the judge& the people thats trying to keep or kids from praying ,its not going to stop us . I'm not scared to speak up because my God will be with me ,my son will still pray at school hes 8 he has autism ,he use to not be able to hear but prayer helped he can hear now prefect because of God All cant stop him from praying he will always belive from Milton fl, by Kelly

Comment: As an active member of the student body at Pace High School, it would be easy for me to become discouraged and succumb to the wishes of the ACLU and discontinue to show my faith at school, but I will not and neither will the majority of my peers. If doing God's will on earth means ruffling some feathers, then so be it. All religious activities have been, and will continue to be, student led. To ban students from conducting religious gatherings, is to violate our first amendment rights, which state that "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." We learn about Christianity in our history classes, but we also learn about Jedaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and a plethora of other religions. Our educators teach about religion because it is the basis of all cultures, not because they are trying to turn their students from aethiests to believers. I can attest to the fact that our faculty and staff understand the severity of the law suit at hand, and although they have been strictly prohibited from imposing their religious beliefs on others, I will continue to share my faith because that is what I have been commanded to do. I have been very blessed, and have a lot to be thankful for; if speaking of how God has worked in my life during my speech at graduation jeopardizes my chance of receiving my diploma, it is a risk I am willing to take. from Pace, Florida by Mary

Comment: How can the Anti-American Civil Liberty Union and the Federal Court Judge charge the school system with violating a persons constitutional right by having Bible Classes, or religion taught in a school, when only a few, or the minority are offended. What, pray tell, would they say to the majority in school or class, whose constitutional rights are violated by denying them their right to practice as they believe? Who is violating whom? This is a constitutional crisis. God help this nation! from Holt Florida by Wes

Comment: Teachers obviously shouldn't try to convert students, but there can't be any separation between church in state simply because religion makes us who we are! Our beliefs conduct our actions and therefore our existence. I can't imagine my graduation without that moment of prayer-no matter what religion you are who can't appreciate encouraging words and well wishes sending you off into the world? Should we remove all opinion and emotion from our schools? It would feel so institutionalized, oppressive. Sometimes I feel afraid to even mention religion in public, like I'm isolated from everyone else. If religion is such a horrible influence schools are inflicting on non-religious students then doesn't anyone realize that declaring it so inappropriate for public doesnt the same thing to the religious? I thought we were allowed to believe and express ourselves however we want? What as long as we conform and not mention one of the most important things in our lives? Of course students are supposedly allowed to personally be religious in public but in public school no one feels comfortable doing that. Should such things be discussed in the classroom? No. But extracurricular activities like Bible Study will no longer be led by a volunteering faculty member and students that want that option [and who were brave enough to attend even when 'endorsed' by a teacher] are still just kids! They need an adult to lead those meetings. The same way we need teachers in the classroom-what if teachers were biased against something in history or a math or science [which they are, a non-religious bias] would we leave the kids to work it out for themselves? NO! they need help to learn these things and the students choosing to participate in religion activities need that too. Whats wrong with that? Don't take away things like a simple prayer at graduation or having a baccalaureate at a school [what changes when the church is just down the street? the place has nothing to do with the sentiment]. Again as long as these simple acts aren't flourished with deeper religious messages then its merely a universal action that just happens to be using the major religion of the area as an opportunity to bring people together-not drive them apart. The teachers found guilty of excessive pushing of religion should be dealt with personally, don't punish all religious people for the actions of a few. from Milton by Carrie

Comment: This is just another avenue for the ACLU to rid GOD in our schools. The further we get from GOD the further our country will go to anarchy. from fort walton beach, fl by kathy

Comment: I think prayer should be kept in schools. If a student does not what to take part in prayer they should have the option to leave the classroom for a brief moment. People need to stand up for what they believe. Two students have filed a complaint and we're going to let that take prayer out of school functions. They must not serve the same God that I do. from Pace, Florida by Susan

Comment: prayers should be allowed at schools from pensacola FL by rita

Comment: Some children only hear about God at school. I think religion should be just as important as other classes. It in the end will be the most important to control their destiny!!! from brewton,al by susan

Comment: I do not agree with the Judge. He needs to be removed. That is exactly why so much meaness is going on in the schools today. Everyone wants to keep God out. How do we expect Our Lord to look out for our children if we won't let him in the schools. from Milton, Fl. by Carolyn