As our nation continues to grow and make progress we often seem to forget our past that has led us to where we are. For quite some time, prayer in school has been a rousing debate topic. Depending on the area in which one resides, this may or may not be condoned. Although the United States of America prides itself on the ability to worship freely, as stated in our constitution, it is often overlooked.

In my opinion, it is quite unethical to require all students to participate in prayer if involved in a public school system. Naturally, prayer is to be expected from certain private schools that are established upon religion such as a Catholic or Christian schools. However, I do believe that prayer in a public school system should by all means be condoned.

Our nation was established upon freedom of religion. Being that a public school system is indeed a public place, it falls within these guidelines. Therefore, we as citizens are to be protected under the United States Constitution to worship freely. In my opinion prayer is to be included in free worship. However, I also believe that any practice of religion committed by a particular student or group of students be condoned within the school system. This is providing that students in no way attempt to pressure others to partake in their personal religion.

Furthermore, I believe that students should have a personal option to partake in prayer. It is to be made clear that no student is required to participate. I also believe that prayer groups are to be condoned within the school system providing that they are offered as an extra curricular activity, not to be mandated by any authority. In order to prepare to students for life after completing secondary school, we must teach the adolescences of today that they are free to worship as the choose and that they should not condemn others for their personal beliefs. This is a crucial element to learn for students to learn in order to function in society.