The Board of Education recognizes the value of district-sponsored programs and ceremonies during school hours and at other appropriate times. Recognizing achievement and talent encourages further learning. District-sponsored programs, ceremonies and observances also provide an opportunity to involve the community in public education.
Programs, Ceremonies and Observances
The flag of the United States of America will be prominently displayed, either on the outside of the building or upon a pole erected in the school yard, at every school in the district during school hours.
The superintendent or designee will create administrative procedures addressing how ceremonies and observances will be conducted.
Religious Content in Programs and Ceremonies
The schools of the Sikeston R-6 School District, as well as all employees of the district as governmental o?cials, are required by law to remain neutral and refrain from endorsing any particular religious belief. However, this policy should not be interpreted to preclude the factual and objective teaching about religions, religious holidays and religious differences.
In particular, music, art, literature and drama with religious themes and programs involving religious themes will be permitted if presented in an objective manner, without sectarian indoctrination. Religious content included in any student performance or ceremony will be selected on the basis of independent educational merit.
To the extent required by law, district employees or o?cials shall not lead attendees of a district-sponsored event in prayer or any other religious ritual, nor shall they direct, whether implicitly or explicitly, a student to lead attendees in a prayer or any other religious ritual. However, this policy shall not be used to deny any student, employee or district official any personal legal right of expression.
Special Consideration
Parents who wish their children to be excused from certain activities or observances should notify the building principal in writing annually. These students will be provided appropriate study activities in lieu of participation.
Parents who object to their children pledging "allegiance" to the flag should make the principal or teacher aware of their objections. Arrangements will be made for the student to remain seated and silent, or if parents prefer, the student will be given permission to leave the room during the time the pledge is being given.