President Trump tweets support for Bible classes in schools
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Should the Bible be studied in public schools?
Several states are pushing Bible literacy bills this year, and President Donald Trump tweeted that he thinks it's "Great!"
Florida, Indiana, Missouri, North Dakota, Virginia and West Virginia are seeking Bible study classes, according to the American Civil Liberties Union.
On Monday morning, President Trump tweeted his support of the bills seeking Bible literacy.
"Numerous states introducing Bible Literacy classes, giving students the option of studying the Bible. Starting to make a turn back? Great!"
Kentucky passed a Bible literacy law that went into effect in 2017.
"I believe if we begin to teach it in public schools it would be a great blessing to the nation and a great blessing to individual kids. Because this country was founded on Christianity," Evangelist Franklin Stewart previously told FOX 17 News.
Last year, Tennessee passed a bill to have the national motto, "In God We Trust" prominently displayed in schools. It was sponsored by Rep. Susan Lynn, R-Mt. Juliet, and will take effect in the 2018-19 school year. The bill defined "prominent location" by a school entryway, cafeteria, or common area where students are likely to see the national motto display.
According to the Equal Access Act, high schools in Tennessee can teach bible history classes that are optional. They cannot teach religious class. The teacher who leads those classes must have a special license and get approval to lead the course. There is also a strict State Board of Education curriculum that they must adhere to.
Also, prayer is allowed in all schools, but only if it is student organized and student facilitated and during special designated times. This is usually only relegated to after school programs.
Currently in Tennessee, no religious classes are required or offered.
