A public high school is holding a religious baccalaureate service. Is that legal?
It is a fundamental principle of Establishment Clause jurisprudence that a public school may not advance, prefer or promote religion. Because it is generally understood that a baccalaureate service is a religious event, a public school may not be involved in the organization or execution of a baccalaureate in any way that would make an objective observer believe that the school is endorsing the event. It is impermissible for a school to financially support, organize, or have direct influence over a baccalaureate service. Below are a list of things to look for in a baccalaureate service that might cause an objective observer to believe that a school is sponsoring the event. If you become aware that any of the scenarios described below are taking place, you may use our handy web form to report a church/state violation. Or, you may send us an e-mail, letter, or fax describing the situation.
