Reply #3: As an elementary public school teacher, I would be very upset.

[livvy]

That optional instruction takes an hour out of instructional time for all the students. I do not know of any teacher who would continue regular instruction (math, reading, science, etc.) with a portion of their students (even a small portion) out of the classroom. When I have students out of my room for additional services (reading, speech, social services, etc.), I read to my kids or they have a work period, when they can work on previously given assignments. I would not consider introducing new material, or giving any kind of lesson.

The point that the "program neither advances nor inhibits religion" misses the point entirely. It infringes on the rights of the students who opt out, by denying them instructional time.

I hope the parents whose children opt out of this program complain loud and clear. I hope the teachers are able to complain as well, without fear of retribution. I know the teachers in my district would be howling, and the union would back them 100%.