Texas
FFRF has worked to ensure that future “See You At the Pole” events will not entangle school staffers in an attempt to lead students in prayer at the Calallen Independent School District in Corpus Christi, Texas.
FFRF learned that the Calallen East Elementary Parent Teacher Association hosted a “See You at the Pole” event on Sept. 25, 2024, at the school. The explicitly Christian event and organization was led by parents and teachers, leading attending students in prayer.
“It is inappropriate and needlessly divisive for the district to allow its staff or outside adults to promote, participate in and organize See You At The Pole events,” FFRF Patrick O’Reiley Legal Fellow Hirsh M. Joshi wrote to the district.
Superintendent Emily Lorenz replied to FFRF’s letter via email, thanking the state/church watchdog for bringing the violation to her attention. “I have communicated with campus administration, and we will be reminding all staff of the separation requirements, and the need for activities of this nature to only be student led,” Lorenz wrote. “We will additionally share your concerns with the PTA Board of East Elementary and the restriction requirements.”
