A long-time teacher in Connecticut is facing disciplinary action after refusing to remove a crucifix from her classroom. The school district claims the display violates both federal and state laws requiring public schools to remain neutral in religious matters.
A teacher in Connecticut is facing disciplinary action after refusing to remove a crucifix from her classroom. Marisol Arroyo-Castro, who has taught in the Consolidated School District of New Britain for 32 years, was suspended for two days without pay after refusing to take down the religious item, which she had displayed for the past decade.
Arroyo-Castro was told by school officials that the crucifix violated both federal and state laws requiring public schools to remain neutral in religious matters. The school district claims that Arroyo-Castro also incorporated her personal religious beliefs into her instruction, leading to concerns from students and staff of different faiths. Arroyo-Castro's legal team argues that her treatment is a violation of her constitutional right to freely exercise her faith. They have demanded the school district immediately reinstate her and end all disciplinary proceedings against her. If their demands are not met, they say they will file for an injunction to protect her rights. The school district maintains that its actions were necessary to protect the rights of all students and maintain a neutral environment in its classrooms.
EDUCATION RELIGION CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS FIRST AMENDMENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
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