Colorado —
FFRF’s advocacy ensured that the Denver Public Schools system reminded employees of their responsibility to remain secular at district-sponsored events.
A district parent reported that on Feb. 27, 2025, Lena Archuleta Elementary School invited students and parents to the school for a school-sponsored Community Unity Night Black History Event. Reportedly, the master of ceremonies, a teacher at Lena Archuleta, explained that “prayer is a foundation of Black culture.” After this comment, the teacher acknowledged that she was not supposed to lead students in prayer at school, but she “wanted to start the event off with prayer anyways.” According to the parent, the teacher directed all attendees, including students, to bow their heads and join her in a prayer that was explicitly directed to God.
Following a letter from FFRF Staff Attorney Sammi Lawrence, the district conducted an investigation into the situation. Lauren Parsons, senior counsel for the Denver Public Schools, confirmed that the district had taken appropriate steps to address the violation, including addressing the matter with the teacher, and providing ongoing training and guidance to employees regarding constitutional requirements.
