Lake Local Schools has directed its coaches not to lead student-athletes in prayer after the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) raised constitutional concerns with the district.
Superintendent Brett Yeagley said the district reviewed its practices and confirmed that while students and staff may pray voluntarily and independently, district employees may not organize or require prayer during school-sponsored activities. Administrators met with all head coaches on Sept. 12 to reinforce the policy.
The Madison, Wisconsin-based FFRF, which advocates for separation of church and state, said it was contacted by a district parent who reported that a Lake Middle High School cross-country coach had been leading the team in prayer before meets. The coach reportedly told athletes, “let’s continue to pray before every meet like last year,” according to the foundation…