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(Washington D.C.) - Today the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia ruled 3-0 that the Establishment Clause permits AmeriCorps members to teach secular subjects in needy religious schools. The appeals court ruling reversed in its entirety a lower court’s decision that would have prevented AmeriCorps members teaching secular subjects in religious schools.
Following is a statement by David Eisner, CEO of the Corporation for National Service, AmeriCorps’ parent agency:
“For 10 years, AmeriCorps members have been teaching secular subjects to the neediest children in the nation, both in public and religious schools. We’re delighted that the court has stepped firmly on the side of needy children in religious schools receiving these critical services. The decision further ensures that AmeriCorps members don’t lose their right to religious expression on their own time because they answer the call to serve their country. This decision is a big victory for disadvantaged schoolchildren and for idealistic Americans who choose to serve them.”
The opinion from U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit is available at http://pacer.cadc.uscourts.gov/docs/common/opinions/200503/04-5317a.pdf.
The Corporation for National and Community Service provides opportunities for Americans of all ages and backgrounds to serve their communities and country through three programs: Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America. Together with the USA Freedom Corps, the Corporation is working to build a culture of citizenship, service, and responsibility in America. For more information, visit www.nationalservice.gov.
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