Lack of Religious Studies in Indiana Public Schools

December 27, 2002

Source: The Associated Press

http://www.fac.org/templates/document.asp?documentID=17404

On December 27, 2002 The Associated Press reported that "perhaps wary of church-state controversies, most public schools in Indiana do not offer courses in religion — even though the law allows it. Biblical literature and religion are currently the only two religion courses offered in Indiana public schools. The literature class is more popular, but Carmel [High School] is one of only 16 schools that offer it. About 500 students around the state take the course... Supporters of religion courses say failing to teach students about religion lessens their understanding of the world... 'We are a more diverse society — even in Indiana. The religious landscape of America has changed dramatically. We can stick our heads in the sand or think of these things consciously,' [said] David Haberman, a professor of religious studies at Indiana University."