Vote Medford 2005

Q6: Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

What role if any do you believe religion should play in the public schools?

Blackburn: Q6 - Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

Ms. Blackburn declined to take part in this questionnaire.

Brady: Q6 - Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

Public education must maintain a separation from religious teaching. This is required by the United States Constitution. I believe that Medford is a community that respects religious groups and most of our citizens are affiliated with a church, temple or other group. Still we would not include religious teachings in our science programs. However, it is important to note that when we study social studies the topic of religion will inevitably come up. This is particularly true with current events. We are not judgmental but respect religious diversity.

Cincotti : Q6 - Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

as we salute our nations flag to honor all it stands for as a daily exercise, so shouldn't every student have right to honor there religious believes (or none)

Cugno: Q6 - Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

I believe that school and religion should be separate identities. However, if there is a discussion that comes up in the classroom, I believe each student should have the opportunity to bring their religious and cultural beliefs to the table.

DiGiantommaso: Q6 - Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

We should continue to say the Pledge of Allegiance. Different cultures should observe their holidays.

Kulik: Q6 - Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

I believe that religion belongs with the family and whatever religious institutions that family is a member of. Our society is too diverse for any public institution to dictate or imply that a particular religious belief should or should not be practiced. At the same time, we need to make reasonable accommodation for individuals with bona fide beliefs that may require practices that are outside the mainstream of society.

Additionally, I recognize that certain social studies such as ancient world history, modern geography, and even certain aspects of world history, cannot be fully taught without recognizing the role that religions played in the development of civilization or in historical events.

One concept that has been raised recently is that of "intelligent design". I view this as an interjection of religious ideals into scientific enquiry, and will not support its incorporation into the science curriculum.

Pompeo: Q6 - Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

Religion has an important cultural role to play on our society-but not in our schools.

Skerry: Q6 - Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

The United States Constitution mandates that there is a separation of church and State.

As a former social studies and English teacher, I realize that religion has and continues to be a powerful influence on human events and thus has become a part of a students studies and we as a community must respect religious diversity and customs but the public schools cannot and must not advocate for any one religion or group.

Van der Kloot: Q6 - Religion in Medford's Public Schools?

As a school committee member, I believe it is my duty to uphold the Constitution of the United States which mandates the separation of Church and State.