Texas
FFRF’s work in Texas ensured that students would not be coerced into prayer by outside adults or school staff at the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District.
FFRF learned that staff members and an outside adult at Barbara C. Jordan Intermediate School led students in prayer at a “See You at the Pole” event in September 2024.
“Staff involvement in SYATP marginalizes and excludes non-Christian students, teachers and parents whose religious beliefs are inconsistent with the message being promoted by the school staff,” FFRF Patrick O’Reiley Legal Fellow Hirsh M. Joshi wrote to the district’s legal representative.
Legal Counsel Christine Badillo responded to FFRF’s concerns. “We understand the rights and limitations of teacher and student actions under the law,” Badillo wrote. “The administration of SCUCISD has already looked into this matter and will ensure staff at all levels have a clear understanding of the requirement that any prayer activities be ‘student led.’”
