Re “ New law requires all Louisiana public school classrooms to display the Ten Commandments ” (June 19): As a retired educator, I have worked alongside dedicated teachers, staff and School Board members to advocate for sustainable student achievement in our public schools. I’m very concerned and really perplexed by the recent actions of elected officials as they attempt to use our schools and students as pawns in this so-called culture war. The current legislation signed into law by Republican Louisiana Gov.
Jeff Landry requires schools to post the Ten Commandments. The real problem with the law is that it’s a clear violation of the First Amendment’s religious freedom clause prohibiting the creation of any state religion — as the Supreme Court has already ruled. I find this ironic when the focus is not on addressing the fact that public schools in Louisiana rank near the bottom in reading and math scores, not to mention the deplorable conditions of the school facilities in urban areas throughout the state.
When you contrast this with the coordinated effort to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs, which were enacted to address various forms of discrimination, one must question the underlining motives of these leaders. I hope voters will take into account their actions and give them a resounding “no confidence vote,” so they can be replaced with leaders who are really committed to improving the academic achievement of all students. Stephen C.
Jone.