Tennessee —
The West Carroll Special School District in Tennessee agreed to put a stop to multiple violations of students’ First Amendment right to be free from religious conduct at school, thanks to FFRF.
FFRF received a report that was confirmed by the commencement program that included staff-led prayer and student-led benediction in the 2025 graduation ceremony. The program further indicated that the audience was directed to stand during the prayer and benediction. Additionally, the official West Carroll Special School District Facebook page promoted a 2025 baccalaureate ceremony. FFRF also learned that the WCSSD Board of Education began each meeting with a prayer or invocation. For example, the Jan. 8 meeting agenda included, “II. Invocation.” Finally, the schools’ dress code included a prohibition of items that advertise satanic worship or cults.
FFRF Patrick O’Reiley Legal Fellow Charlotte R. Gude wrote to the district with FFRF’s concerns and received a response from the district’s legal representative, Christopher C. Hayden, who confirmed that the district had taken action. “The West Carroll Special School District has conducted an investigation into the allegations contained within your letter and can confirm that the concerns discussed in your correspondence no longer exist.” When asked for more detail, Hayden stated that he addressed the concerns raised by FFRF with school leadership, and they agreed to put a stop to the conduct.
