New Jersey School District Bans Religious Christmas Music / Violation of First Amendment

Apparently a New Jersey school district does not like the idea of religious music being a part of "elementary" program[s].

Bordentown Regional School District superintendent, Constance Bauer, recently sent a message out to colleagues stating there should be a separation of school and religion, especially in regards to song selection for music concerts. She states it is the responsibility of the school district to uphold religious diversity amongst students.

"It remains the District's mission to celebrate the rich and wonderful diversity of our children and community and hope that the joy shared through our numerous winter programs will continue to be (a) cherished part of your traditions," she concluded.

The Alliance Defending Freedom, who specializes in these types of cases reminded Bauer that the federal court has to be the deciding factor when determining violations to the First Amendment. According to the Alliance, "every federal court to examine the issue has determined that including Christmas carols and other religious music in school choir programs fully complies with the First Amendment." 

According to Senior Legal Counsel Jeremy Tedesco:

"Misinformation about the First Amendment is frequently what leads to censorship of constitutionally permissible and culturally significant songs performed during Christmas concerts. We urge the Bordentown Regional School District to rescind this new policy and permit religious music to be included among the many non-religious songs performed at school concerts."

What do you think about celebrating religious themes in public schools during Christmas [or winter] season?