FFRF put a stop to the distribution of Gideon bibles at the Thomaston-Upson Schools system in Thomaston, Ga.
FFRF was informed that, each year, the district allowed the Gideons to come into Upson Lee Elementary School and distribute bibles to fifth-grade students. Reportedly, the Gideons set up a table right outside the fifth-grade wing, and, during instructional time, students were lined up to walk through and pick up bibles.
After FFRF Staff Attorney Chris Line wrote to Superintendent Larry Derico, FFRF heard back from him. “As superintendent, it has been my practice to remind school district administrators of the benefits and detriments of creating a limited public forum and its impact on the separation of church and state,” he wrote. Derico stated that he advised that the distribution of Gideon bibles on school campuses would not be permitted.
