Examines the constitutionality of public school personnel organizing prayers at extracurricular events and of using ceremonial prayers, invocation, and benedictions at school activities. Reviews court litigation and Supreme Court decisions that use the Establishment Clause and Lemon test to determine legality. Finds, in most cases, that prayer at…

Responding to student recitation of the Lord's Prayer at a high school graduation, recounts how religious differences can create difficulties and discomfort for students in public schools. Argues the right of the minority must be protected from a majority who wishes to promote their religious beliefs at taxpayer expense. (DB)

Discusses court decisions on the rights of religious groups to rent public school facilities and to distribute religious literature on public school grounds. Compares decisions and reasoning in U.S. appellate courts and the Supreme Court. Predicts that the relationship between religion and public education will continue to evolve. (DK)

Reviews current Supreme Court doctrine as tested in lower federal and state courts in three areas in which public schools are involved. Examines Court decisions on silent meditation, equal access, and baccalaureate and commencement services. Finds the issues have not been fully resolved. (DB)