Judge allows Brookfield high school graduation ceremonies in church

[Jimbo S]

Brookfield Central and East high schools can hold their upcoming graduation ceremonies in a nearby megachurch, as they have been doing for nearly a decade, a federal judge ruled Tuesday.

"A ceremony in a church does not necessarily constitute a church ceremony," Clevert said from the bench.

In his ruling, Clevert rejected the comparison between holding a secular graduation ceremony in a church with a graduation ceremony that includes a prayer, which the U.S. Supreme Court has held unconstitutional.

http://www.jsonline.com/news/education/46731582.html

From what I get from this, because prayer is not performed, it's still considered a secular event despite all the symbolism?

Who in their sane mind would even schedule a graduation ceremony in a religious building? WTF?

[Serial Mom]

1. And I think (speculation) the church is taking money from the city...

because one man on TV said other venues were "more expensive" - so if they take money how come the people paying them for use could not cover up the religious symbols?


Besides, isn't being a "good neighbor" respecting the rights of others?

[undeterred]

2. My high school graduation was on the football field

I don't think they considered having it off school property.

[midnight]

3. Hi Jimbo S. This story is so interesting. Several years ago,

the Elmbrook school dist. raised awareness and money via fundraisers to build the Sharon Lynn Wilson Center so that both high schools musical groups could preform together. But when everything was built the space was not large enough. Not sure what the justification was, but that is what happened. I know the school dist. does get to use the space,Sharon Lynn, for functions, but not for bringing the schools together as was discussed. The Elmbrook superintendent has taught religion classes at this mega church. So he has connections to arrange these events with some fluidity. It was a concern several years ago, and sounds like it has still not been addressed.

[Dinger]

4. That's Such Bullshit. What Next?

If you give these types an inch, they'll take a mile, or more.

[Dinger]

5. Hey Jimbo, You Should Post This In GD

I think it deserves more exposure.

[Jimbo S]

6. Done.