Religion in the Curriculum 6-9.1

School Board of the City of Virginia Beach
Regulation 6-9.1

INSTRUCTION

Religion in the Curriculum

Teaching about - and not of religion should be conducted in a factual objective and respectful manner in accordance with the guidelines set forth below:

1. The school board supports the inclusion of religious literature, music, drama and the arts in the curriculum and in school activities provided that it is intrinsic to the learning experience in the various fields of study and is presented objectively.
2. The emphasis on religious themes in the arts, literature and history should be only as extensive as necessary for a balanced and comprehensive study of these areas. Such studies should never foster any particular religious tenets or demean any religious beliefs.
3. Student-initiated expressions to questions or assignments which reflect their beliefs or non-beliefs about a religious theme shall be accommodated. For example, students are free to express religious belief or non-belief in compositions, art forms, music, speech and debate.

Approved by Superintendent: October 19, 1993