An investigation has been launched into allegations that a high school teacher in California has been rewarding students with “Bible cookies” and offering extra credit to those who copied out Bible verses, reports Christian Today .
A New Vision High school student, in Manteca, California, filed a complaint with Americans United for Separation of Church and State, alleging teacher John Alameda rewarded students with Bible cookies at the continuation school. In a letter obtained by Fox40 News , the student claimed the Manteca teacher had been giving Bible cookies to students. It added that the teacher offered extra credit for copying Bible verses.
Legal fellow for Americans United, John McGinnis, sent a letter to the local Superintendent, Jason Messer, setting out the allegations.
“We have received a complaint that New Vision High School teacher John Alameda is using his official position to promote an after-school Bible club,” McGinnis wrote.
“We understand that Mr. Alameda not only sponsors the club but also shares his Christian beliefs during school hours and frequently encourages his students to attend the club’s meetings. Furthermore, he offers extra credit for copying Bible verses and gives students ‘Bible Cookies’ as a reward for completing class assignments.
“We write to inform you that these actions violate the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment to the US Constitution. We ask that you take steps to ensure that Mr. Alameda complies with constitutional requirements.”
McGinnis clarified that U.S. law prohibits teachers from sharing their faith with students during school hours “and incorporating religious content into the curriculum for extra credit and as rewards”.
“It is well established that the [Establishment] Clause prohibits school employees from using their official positions to promote religious activities or religious perspectives to students in any manner,” he wrote.
Manteca Unified School District is looking into the situation. In a statement, Clark Burke, Educational Deputy Superintendent said, “The Manteca Unified School District is currently conducting an investigation into the complaint filed by the Americans United for the Separation of Church and State. While respecting the diversity and beliefs of our community, the Manteca Unified School District is dedicated to ensure the separation of Church and State as prescribed by law.”
“The teacher should stop this unlawful proselytization (sic) and pushing of religion on, near vulnerable students,” Alex Luchenitser, the Associate Legal Director for Americans United for Separation of Church and State told FOX 40 Thursday in a phone interview.
The incident is just one of many Bible controversies attracting attention according to a recent article by the Inquisitr .
