FFRF has stopped religious music lessons at Emmons Lake Elementary School in Caledonia, Mich., thanks to FFRF Staff Attorney Andrew Seidel, who contacted the Caledonia Community Schools District on behalf of a concerned parent. In his Oct. 3 letter to Superintendent Randy Rodriguez, Seidel opposed the teaching of Christian-themed music to young schoolchildren, referring to the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment as reason for protest.
“The problems with the music are compounded by the fact that [the teacher] used the song as an opportunity to teach Christian doctrine to students, as well as by the fact that the concert is specifically labeled a ‘Christmas’ concert,” noted Seidel.
On Oct. 16, the superintendent wrote to FFRF, ensuring that the school “has initiated steps to resolve this concern at a local level.”
The complainant confirmed that religious teachings have been withdrawn from music classes.