Arkansas —

FFRF successfully encouraged the Brookland Public Schools in Arkansas system to remove displays containing bible verses and explicitly Christian language from two schools.

A parent reported that Brookland Middle School and Brookland Junior High School were displaying religious messages around the schools, including in hallways. Some of the messages invited students to contribute prayers and encourage religious participation. Messages included bible verses and encouraging students to “remember Jesus,” and that “God is looking out for [students] and will provide all [they] need.” FFRF’s parent-complainant also stated that teachers have invited students to participate in church services, and the messaging makes them feel uneasy and worried about the potential influence it would have on their children.

“The bible quotes and religious messages displayed in Brookland Public Schools needlessly marginalize any students and families, such as our complainant and their children, who do not subscribe to Christianity,” FFRF Staff Attorney Sammi Lawrence wrote.

Rebecca Worsham of the Mixon & Worsham PLC responded on behalf of the district, confirming FFRF’s claims. The district removed such displays, and principals have been directed to monitor compliance to ensure that postings don’t happen again. “In addition, the district will provide administrators and staff with updated guidance reinforcing constitutional requirements of religious neutrality in public schools,” Worsham wrote. “This guidance will make clear that district personnel may not promote religion, invite students to religious activities or otherwise give the appearance of school endorsement of religious practice.”

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