Warsaw Schools Take Advice of NIA and Its Own Marquee
NIA sent a letter on behalf of concerned Washington Elementary School parents to Dr. David Hoffert, superintendent of Warsaw Community Schools (WCS), and Tom Ray, principal of Washington Elementary School, asking that the school take down biblical language on the school marquee: “DO UNTO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD HAVE THEM DO UNTO YOU!” Washington Elementary School parents initially reached out to NIA with their concern about the promotion of religion at WCS.
NIA President Troy Moss said, “The Washington Elementary School marquee is used to communicate important information to students, parents, staff, and the community. Wawasee Schools is clearly communicating a biblical message to the parents who reported the sign to NIA.” In the letter, Moss said, “Parents should feel comfortable sending their children to public schools and not fear that they will be preached to or forced to participate in someone else’s faith tradition. This type of display by Washington Elementary School is a red flag to parents.”
We’re happy to report that WCS took the advice of NIA and its own marquee. The new message reads, “IF YOU WANT PEOPLE TO BE KIND TO YOU, BE KIND TO THEM.” The same basic message without the baggage of biblical language.
This isn’t the first time NIA has sent a letter to WCS. Last year we worked with parents to put an end to unconstitutional religious lessons at Lincoln Elementary School. At that time we asked that WCS protect the rights of conscience of all its students and that staff be reminded of their obligation to remain neutral toward religion while acting in their capacity as public school teachers.
WCS parents are determined to protect their children from religious indoctrination by staying vigilant and keeping their schools in check. We here at NIA appreciate that! If you have evidence that your school may have state/church violations, fill out our Report a State Church Violation form, and we’ll work together to remedy the problem.
Northern Indiana Atheists is a nonprofit established to fight state/church violations on a local level and defend the rights of atheists and other marginalized communities across Northern Indiana.
Membership is open to atheists and our allies who share our vision for a government that represents all citizens equally and our passion for serving our community. Your membership and donations amplify our voice and makes our impact even stronger. Become a member today at NorthernIndianaAtheists.com.