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At a time when the United States faces unprecedented challenges at home and abroad, public schools must do far more to prepare young people to be engaged, ethical advocates of "liberty and justice for all." This article explores what makes some people behave ethically--even at the risk of their own lives--and asserts that developing moral habits of the heart is the central mission of schools. It describes "schools of conscience" that support students in their search for meaning while teaching them the civic principles and virtues necessary for sustaining the common good in a democracy.

From northern California to southern Florida, there are just too many superintendents who are reluctant to touch religion with the proverbial 10-foot pole. Following the let-sleeping-dogs-lie approach to administration, they start to think about First Amendment solutions only after a fight breaks out. By then it is often too late to avert a bitter legal battle that divides the community and erodes support for public education. Even school districts with "religion policies" buried somewhere on the shelf still get into trouble because nobody remembers what the policies say. In this article, the author discusses several strategies school leaders can employ to be proactive when they are likely to get caught in the crossfire of debates involving deep religious and ideological differences. The author also describes what the school districts in Richardson, Texas and in Mustang, Oklahoma did in order to develop guidelines for their religious practices.

In the wake of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the American government acted quickly to mobilize what it called "critical homeland defenders" to meet the threat faced by our nation and the world. Not surprisingly, 21 government agencies made the list, ranging from the State Department to the U.S. Border Patrol. That may be what it takes to address the immediate crisis. But for the long-term preservation and expansion of democratic freedom, the United States must look to public schools--the one institution founded to transmit civic principles and virtues from one generation to the next. In this article, the author stresses that not only should public schools be added to the list, they should be moved up to the top as America's most important homeland defender.

Argues that nowhere is it more important to address religious diversity than in the public schools--the principal institution charged with enabling Americans to live with their deepest differences. Discusses the First Amendment and how the American press is handling religion. Addresses religious liberty in schools and religious liberty rights of students. Includes some basic information on Islam. Presents resources for addressing religious diversity and religious liberty in public schools. (SG)

From 19th-century Protestant hegemony to today's religion-free zones, we have found no proper, constitutional role for religion and religious expression in public education. Both models are unjust and, in some cases, unconstitutional. A third model, composed of consensual guidelines, must be translated into local district policies and practices. (MLH)

There is now remarkable agreement on religion's proper constitutional and educational place in public education. A 1995 statement issued by 24 religious and educational groups reaffirms Americans' commitment to First Amendment principles, envisioning civil public schools that neither inculcate nor inhibit religion. Sidebars list resources for building policy and common ground. (MLH)

Explores whether public schools can accommodate the religious needs of Muslim students. Provides background information on the migration of Muslims to the United States from the Middle East and on Islamic beliefs and practices. Identifies the various needs and challenges in adapting the schools to fit Muslim students' lifestyle and religious beliefs. (CMK)

The role of religion in American society has been ignored by textbook publishers and is not being taught in U.S. schools. The support for the separation of church and state is eroding as a result. Includes a sidebar providing supplementary resource materials on religion for use by teachers. (MD)