New Legislation in Six States Allows (or Requires) Public Schools to Display "In God We Trust" in Classrooms

by Explore | 9.10.19

by Explore |

Last year, six states passed laws allowing (or requiring) schools to display the words “In God We Trust” in public schools.

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For some states, including South Dakota and Louisiana, the mandatory display aspect of the law went into effect at the beginning of the 2019/2020 school year. Students in both states can expect to see the words “In God We Trust” displayed in every classroom, and many schools plan to include lessons on the history of the phrase as an (unofficial) “national motto.”

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These new laws have raised concerns from parents, teachers, students, and interest groups alike. Opponents of the law see it as a violation of the establishment clause of the First Amendment. Supporters insist that it does not push one religion over another or force anyone to worship.

Do you think this law oversteps the boundary between church and state? Let us know what you think.