In a controversial move yesterday, Louisiana became the first state in the country to require the Ten Commandments to be posted in all public classrooms. The move sparked debate throughout the educational and legal communities. The order, signed into law by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry, applies to all educational institutions that receive state funding, from kindergarten to college.
A Closer Look at House Bill 71
The newly signed bill states that each classroom must display a poster-sized display of the Ten Commandments in a “large, easily readable font.” The bill details the biblical commandment language and emphasizes that religious content should be the central focus of posters. Governor Landry expressed his support for the bill, saying:
If we are to respect the rule of law, we must start with the original law given to Moses. Moses received commandments from God.
—Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry
However, significant opposition actively challenged state-led plans. Critics argue that mandating religious textbooks in public schools violates the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits any law 'respecting an establishment of religion.' Civil liberties groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union and Americans United for Separation of Church and State, have announced plans to challenge the law. They claim this violates Supreme Court precedent and results in “unconstitutional religious coercion on students.”
What teachers are saying about House Bill 71:
This law certainly has teachers talking. Here is a collection of responses from Instagram where we posted the news.
“Public schools are for people of all races, genders, religions and abilities. This is a serious violation of the purpose for which public schools were established. There's also a reason why Louisiana ranks 49th in public education. Their government is more worried about passing this nonsense than actually funding schools and improving education.” —@missaimeemd
“I teach in Louisiana public schools and I am angry, confused and embarrassed. “Some leaders believe this law will solve the problem, but most aim to boost their own image and gain more power.” —@sewil
“If your version of Christianity is putting the Ten Commandments in schools and wanting to get free lunches, then you’re worshiping something other than Jesus.” —@ZachWLambert
“Can someone explain to me why having rainbows in the classroom is ‘brainwashing’ but the Ten Commandments are not?” —@Logically_JC
“‘When I’m hungry’ you don’t let me eat lunch at school and you put up posters of the Ten Commandments in my classroom.” —@Brcremer
What do teachers need to know?
For Louisiana educators, this new law presents challenges. Supporters of the bill cite the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 Kennedy v. Bremerton decision that allowed private religious expression in public places, while opponents see it as a clear violation of the separation of church and state. Teachers are now in the sensitive position of having to address legal and ethical issues while creating an environment that respects all students. Do all teachers wear hats? Add “Exploring Religious Conversations” to your list.
Strategies for navigating this new terrain may include:
- Professional Development: Educators will benefit from sessions covering legal insights and strategies for sensitively addressing religious topics in diverse classrooms.
- Community Involvement: Dialogue with parents and community leaders can help manage different perspectives on mandates and promote a balanced educational environment.
- Legal Recognition: Staying informed about ongoing legal issues and understanding the implications of the law is critical for educators to protect themselves and their students.
With this law taking effect, the role of Louisiana teachers has become even more important. Louisiana teachers face the challenge of implementing very personal legal policies amid public scrutiny and personal beliefs. As the debate progresses, teachers must balance legal compliance with efforts to maintain a respectful and inclusive classroom environment.
The results of this law are likely to impact policy beyond Louisiana and across the country as well as other controversial issues. Now more than ever, teachers must monitor the conversation about how public education and religious practice intersect in America. What nonsense will you put on your plate next?