Dawson County High School is now offering Bible study classes organized by pastors and Christian educators at nearby churches. These are elective classes that count toward graduation requirements, and are NOT in violation of "separation of church and state" according to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling.
For background, read For-credit Bible Study Back in Tennessee Public Schools and also read Idaho School Takes Bible to Supreme Court as well as Texas Schools Must Teach 'Bible as History & Literature'
--From "Dawson County to offer Bible-based classes" posted at WAGA-TV5 Atlanta 10/12/12
"Biblical-based principals are good for all us to understand and know, and so many of our young people today don't have the opportunity or the ability to go to church," said Kevin Tanner of the Dawson County Christian Learning Center.
"This is completely non-denominational. It is an evangelical organization," said Mark Cown of the Dawson County Christian Learning Center [a nonprofit and accredited institution].
"We may have some push back, but again it's being offered at no cost to the taxpayers, no public funds, not being held on public property, so I don't anticipate that being a big issue," said Tanner.
Organizers said the program will be accredited through Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). It will initially be taught by an accredited teacher.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Biblical-based course carries school credit" by Michele Hester, Staff Writer, Gainesville Times 10/10/12
Ruled constitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1952, released time religious education is completely funded by donations, without the use of tax dollars.
"We exist to prepare students spiritually, academically, emotionally and socially for God's call on their lives," [said Brooke Anderson, board chairman of the Dawson County Christian Learning Center].
A father of three, board member George Parson said the courses give students the "ability to choose a new opportunity that's been kept away from public school for too long."
Course topics range from family, community and career to comparative religions, life skills and current issues. They're based on scripture principles, with the Bible as the textbook.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
