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6115
Instruction
Ceremonies and Observances
Silent Meditation
The school day shall start with a minute of silent meditation. Teachers and students not
participating will be expected to observe the courtesy of not disturbing others.
The Board further directs that an opportunity to say the Pledge of Allegiance shall be provided
each school day. Participation in the recitation of the Pledge is voluntary.
The teacher will make the announcement in each classroom. Those students and teachers who do
not participate may continue with their regular activities in a manner that does not disturb those
who wish to observe the minute of silent meditation.
Legal Reference: Connecticut General Statutes
10-16a Silent meditation.
PA 02-119, An Act Concerning Bullying Behavior in Schools and
Concerning the Pledge of Allegiance
Policy adopted: December 10, 2002 COLCHESTER PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Colchester, Connecticut
INSTRUCTION
6115P
CEREMONIES AND OBSERVATIONS
Draft January 2022 - First Reading 1/26/2022
Replaces Existing Policy (CABE Model Policy)
In accordance with the mandate of the Constitution of the United States prohibiting the
establishment of religion, it is the policy of this Board that the public schools will, at all times
and in all ways, be neutral in matters of religion.
This requirement of neutrality need not preclude nor hinder the public schools in fulfilling their
responsibility to educate students to be tolerant and respectful of religious diversity. The
district also recognizes that one of its educational responsibilities is to advance the students'
knowledge and appreciation of the role that religion has played in the social, cultural, and
historical development of civilization.
Therefore, the district will approach religion from an objective, curriculum-related perspective,
encouraging all students and staff members to be aware of the diversity of beliefs and
respectful of each other's religious and/or non-religious views. In that spirit of respect, students
and staff members should be excused from participating in activities that are contrary to
religious beliefs unless there are clear issues of compelling public interest that would prevent it.
As required by the No Child Left Behind Act, the Superintendent will, by October 1 of each year,
certify in writing to the state that students of the District are not prevented by policy or rule
from participating in constitutionally protected prayer. The Superintendent will ensure that the
staff, parents/guardians and students are made aware of the parameters of acceptable religious
speech and actions. The Superintendent will also distribute guidelines to each school
concerning religion in the schools, after such guidelines/regulations have been approved by the
Board attorney and reviewed by the Board.
Holiday Celebration and Observances
The building Principal is responsible for monitoring compliance with this policy. Pertinent
information will be included in the student, parent, and staff handbooks.
Absence for Religious Observation
Student absences for religious observances shall be excused. Furthermore, such absences
should not prohibit receipt of attendance related awards nor impact student grades or
participation in school events.
CEREMONIES AND OBSERVANCES Page 1 of 3
Recognition of Religious Holidays
The objective study of religious holidays provides a natural opportunity to promote an
appreciation for and respect of diversity. Learning opportunities should extend beyond
Judeo-Christian beliefs; reflecting the diversity of global cultures.
1. Recognition of religious holidays will not dominate the educational program and must
support curricular objectives.
2. All religions must be afforded equal dignity, but none advanced nor disparaged.
3. Decorations which are part of custom, that have no direct religious meaning (Christmas
tree, Menorah) may be displayed. Tree decoration should not promote religion nor
require student participation.
4. Programs should focus on seasonal rather than religious themes' inclusive of concerts,
enrichment programs and Parent-Teacher Organization sales.
5. Performances which recognize holidays must be of an artistic nature, not religious.
Religious music must not dominate any school program. Program selections should not,
by their nature, exclude students from participation.
6. The Cafeteria staff will consider religious dietary restrictions when planning menus
(non-meat meals, limiting pork to one menu choice).
7. Parents may exclude their children from programs involving the recognition of religious
holidays or if celebration is in conflict with family beliefs. A written request for exclusion
should be sent to the Principal.
Silent Meditation
The Board directs that the administration shall provide for students and teachers the
opportunity to observe an appropriate period of time for silent meditation at the beginning of
each school day.
Pledge of Allegiance
Students will be offered the opportunity to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States
Flag at least once during each school day. Participation in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance will
be voluntary. Students may refuse to participate in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance for any
reason, including religious, political, philosophical or personal reasons. If a student chooses not
to participate, he/she may stand or sit in silence.
Legal Reference: Connecticut General Statutes
10-16a Silent meditation.
10-230 Flags in schoolrooms and schools. Policy on the reciting of the
“Pledge of Allegiance.”
CEREMONIES AND OBSERVANCES Page 2 of 3
No Child Left Behind Act of 2001
Policy adopted: December 10, 2002 COLCHESTER PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Policy revised: Colchester, Connecticut
CEREMONIES AND OBSERVANCES Page 3 of 3