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January 12, 2024
Title: Religious Freedom Day January 16, 2024
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Part 1 of 4
In 1993, President George H.W. Bush proclaimed January 16 to be
Religious Freedom Day in the United States.
Eric Buehrer is a former public-school teacher and founder of Gateways to Better Education. Today, Eric explains the religious freedom rights that students and teachers have in public school and how they can legally promote and participate in
Religious Freedom Day.
Click here to download the FREE
Religious Freedom Day Guide from Gateways for Better Education.
Click here for all the details about
Religious Freedom Day on January 16, 2024.
Click here for more resources from
Gateways for Better Education.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Why is it important for students and teachers in public school settings to know their religious freedom rights?
Is religious freedom vital to a healthy society? Eric discusses three reasons: it creates a harmonious society, it motivates people to do good, and it places something higher than the government.
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Title: Part 2 of 4 - Religious Freedom Day January 16, 2024
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Questions/Issues Discussed:
What are some religious freedoms students have in public school? Eric discusses: inviting friends to church, wearing religious clothing, forming prayer groups/clubs at school, and excused absences for religious purposes. Listen in to hear more…
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Title: Part 3 of 4 - Religious Freedom Day January 16, 2024
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Questions/Issues Discussed:
What are some religious freedoms teachers have in public school? Eric discusses
their personal rights and academic freedom. He also discusses the latest
guidance rules, which can be found on their website (listed above). He says: “There
is so much more freedom than people think. They just have to be aware.”
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Title: Part 4 of 4 - Religious Freedom Day January 16, 2024
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Eric shares that some school districts are welcoming and open to learning more
about religious freedom for their students and staff. Others are not as welcome
or inviting. But one school district in CALIFORNIA surprised him and he is now
using their videos to help educate people of their religious freedom rights in
public schools across the country. Click
here to view the Orange County Department of Education videos on religious
freedom.
How can a student start a Christian club/prayer group/Bible study at their
public school? Click
here for all the information.
Why is Gateways for Better Education partnering with other
organizations to spread the religious freedom message?
Click here to help support Gateways to Better Education.
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September 26, 2023
Title: Students’ Religious Liberties in Public School
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
All students have rights in public schools – even Christian
students.
Eric Buehrer is the Founder of Gateways to Better Education. Today,
Eric reveals all the different religious liberties that Christian students have
at public school.
Click here for some resources from
Gateways to Better Education.
Click here to donate to
Gateways to Better Education.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Can students pray, read their Bible/other religious material, and talk about
their faith at school? Eric explains that all of these are absolutely allowed in
school, but they cannot ignore their school/classwork to do so.
Can students organize prayer groups and religious clubs at their public school?
Can they announce their meetings? For more specifics, click
here.
Can students express their faith in their class work and homework? Eric
discusses how this is protected under the First Amendment.
Can students wear clothing/jewelry with religious messages? This again falls
under the First Amendment – except if the message promotes violence or something
profane.
Can students go off campus to have religious studies during school hours? It
depends on the state, but more information can be found
here.
Can students express their faith at a school-sponsored event, such as a
graduation ceremony? Eric explains that it must be initiated by the student, not
by a teacher or school employee.
Can a student pass out religious literature at school? Eric explains that
students cannot just stand in the hallway and pass out religious literature, but
students are allowed to give individual students information, much like they
would an invitation to a birthday party.
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September 19, 2023
Title: Students’ Religious Liberties in Public School
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
All students have rights in public schools – even Christian
students.
Eric Buehrer is the Founder of Gateways to Better Education. Today,
Eric reveals all the different religious liberties that Christian students have
at public school.
Click here for some resources from
Gateways to Better Education.
Click here to donate to
Gateways to Better Education.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Can students pray, read their Bible/other religious material, and talk about
their faith at school? Eric explains that all of these are absolutely allowed in
school, but they cannot ignore their school/classwork to do so.
Can students organize prayer groups and religious clubs at their public school?
Can they announce their meetings? For more specifics, click
here.
Can students express their faith in their class work and homework? Eric
discusses how this is protected under the First Amendment.
Can students wear clothing/jewelry with religious messages? This again falls
under the First Amendment – except if the message promotes violence or something
profane.
Can students go off campus to have religious studies during school hours? It
depends on the state, but more information can be found
here.
Can students express their faith at a school-sponsored event, such as a
graduation ceremony? Eric explains that it must be initiated by the student, not
by a teacher or school employee.
Can a student pass out religious literature at school? Eric explains that
students cannot just stand in the hallway and pass out religious literature, but
students are allowed to give individual students information, much like they
would an invitation to a birthday party.
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July 24, 2023
Title: Helping Kids/Teens Express their Faith at School
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Eric Buehrer was a public-school teacher before founding
Gateways to Better Education. He is a published author and
nationally-recognized authority on the subject of religion and public education.
Today, Eric encourages parents whose children attend public schools across the
nation. How can parents help them graduate with their faith and values intact?
Click here for more resources from
Gateways to Better Education.
Click here to help support
Gateways to Better Education.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
How can we be involved helping our children and grandchildren keep their faith
in public schools? How can we help them graduate with their faith and values
intact? Eric urges parents and even grandparents to be actively involved in
their education and ask in-depth questions about what they’re learning. He also
discusses the importance of “pre-teaching”.
Can children and teens express religious views in public schools? When are they
permitted to read their Bibles?
Can children and teens pray and sing religious songs in public schools?
What religious liberty rights do public school teachers have?
What is the purpose of the upcoming Faith, Freedom, and Public Schools
event in Keller, Texas, August 4-5, 2023. Click
here for all the details.
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September 16, 2022
Title: Students’ Religious Liberties in Public School
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
All students have rights in public schools – even Christian
students.
Eric Buehrer is the Founder of Gateways to Better Education. Today,
Eric reveals all the different religious liberties that Christian students have
at public school.
Click here for some resources from
Gateways to Better Education.
Click here to donate to
Gateways to Better Education.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Can students pray, read their Bible/other religious material, and talk about
their faith at school? Eric explains that all of these are absolutely allowed in
school, but they cannot ignore their school/classwork to do so.
Can students organize prayer groups and religious clubs at their public school?
Can they announce their meetings? For more specifics, click
here.
Can students express their faith in their class work and homework? Eric
discusses how this is protected under the First Amendment.
Can students wear clothing/jewelry with religious messages? This again falls
under the First Amendment – except if the message promotes violence or something
profane.
Can students go off campus to have religious studies during school hours? It
depends on the state, but more information can be found
here.
Can students express their faith at a school-sponsored event, such as a
graduation ceremony? Eric explains that it must be initiated by the student, not
by a teacher or school employee.
Can a student pass out religious literature at school? Eric explains that
students cannot just stand in the hallway and pass out religious literature, but
students are allowed to give individual students information, much like they
would an invitation to a birthday party.
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September 17, 2021
Title: Equipping Students, Parents, and Teachers to be Salt and Light
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Part 1 of 3
It’s tough to be a Christian in today’s society. It’s even tougher to be a
Christian in junior high, high school, and college. Not only for students, but
for teachers and administrators as well.
Eric Buehrer discusses the importance of teaching our kids how to be salt and
light in their public school.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
With the vast majority of churched-kids attending public schools across America,
how can we better equip them to be salt and light for the gospel?
Can students wear Christian t-shirts at school and school-related events? Can
they bring their Bible? Can they talk about Jesus? Click
here for more info on this.
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Title: Part 2 of 3 - Equipping Students, Parents, and Teachers to be Salt and Light
Topic: Pro-Life Issues
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Click here for more information
about the upcoming Faith, Freedom, and Public Schools
in-person conference on Friday and Saturday October 1-2 in Austin, Texas.
Childcare is available on Friday night, but with limited availability, so
reserve your spot today.
Details:
Friday night 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM:
At this seminar parents, grandparents, and ministry leaders will discover:
- A powerful way to teach children discernment in class
- How to address a concern with a teacher in a gracious way
- What students’ religious liberties are at school
- How to teach your children a biblical definition of tolerance
- How to connect the Bible to an academic subject and more!
Saturday morning 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM:
This 3.5-hour professional development seminar is for public school educators
and school leaders. This is not about “education theory.” You’ll learn
practical ways to appropriately and lawfully include teaching about the Bible
and Christianity as it relates to history, culture, and values across the
curriculum. You’ll also receive the latest updates on federal and state
religious liberty issues affecting students and teachers and more!
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Title: Part 3 of 3 - Equipping Students, Parents, and Teachers to be Salt and Light
Topic: Pro-Life Issues
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Questions/Issues Discussed:
How can we better educate teachers to be salt and light, spreading the Gospel to
their students and co-workers? Eric says too many teachers don’t know what they
can and cannot teach to their students.
FACT: The 10 Commandments are supposed to be taught in public
schools in Texas! Is your student learning this?
Eric Buehrer discusses the upcoming Faith, Freedom, and Public
Schools Webinar 4-part series for parents, educators, and school
leaders on October 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM (CST). Click
here for more details.
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August 30, 2021
Title: Religious Freedom in Public Schools
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Part 1 of 2
Many people are confused over what is allowed and what is not regarding religious expression at public schools.
Eric Buehrer is the Founder and President of Gateways to Better Education. Their mission is to help educators, leaders, parents, and students navigate the legal system, protecting both education and religious freedom.
Click here to learn more about Gateways’ “National Free to Speak” campaign.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Can a student pray, talk about their faith, and read their Bible or other religious material at school?
Can students organize prayer groups and religious clubs to meet at school? Can they announce their meetings? Eric explains how the clubs/meetings can be announced and also discusses some recent POSITIVE changes from the Department of Education.
Can students express their faith in their class work and homework?
Can students wear clothing with religious messages?
Can students express their faith at a school event – such as footballs games or graduation? Eric says this has a yes and no answer…
Can students pass out religious literature at school? Eric says that, again, this has a yes and no answer…
More from this Guest More on this Topic More from this Organization
Title: Part 2 of 2 - Religious Freedom in Public Schools
Topic: Religion and Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Can educators and school employees pray at school?
Can educators teach about religion in class?
Must schools accommodate religious instruction and prayer during school hours?
Gateways to Better Education has many free resources on their website.
Click on the link above next to their organization name for more details.
If you would like to “fact-check” any of the information discussed with
Eric Buehrer, click
here.
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December 1, 2020
Title: Teaching about Jesus Christ and Christmas
Topic: Faith in the Workplace
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Are you a Christian public school teacher? Do you know a Christian public school teacher? THIS SEGMENT IS FOR YOU!
Eric Buehrer is the President of Gateways to Better Education. Click
here to help support their Faith, Freedom & Public Schools, a virtual training for public school teachers. In this program, teachers learn how to promote religious freedom in the classroom and teach about the Bible and Christianity in an appropriate and legal manner.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Are Christian teachers in public schools permitted teach their students about the importance of the Bible and Christianity?
What does the Faith, Freedom & Public Schools training session cover?
On average, how many students does one teacher impact over a five-year period?
What if a teacher or school administrator tells a Christian teacher they cannot teach about their faith in the classroom? A great resource is Gateway’s toll-free number 800.929.1163
What does it cost to train one teacher?
How your gift will help:
100 students for a gift of $40
200 students for a gift of $80
310 students for $125
500 students for a gift of $200
1,000 students for a gift of $400
2,500 students for a gift of $1,000
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January 24, 2020
Title: New Guidelines on Religious Freedom in Public Schools
Topic: Christian Discrimination in Public Schools
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Many people believe President Obama and his Administration went beyond their power and legal authority to hinder religious freedom in public schools.
Eric Buehrer, the President of Gateways to Better Education, has some great news. President Trump is changing that!
Questions/Issues Discussed:
By law, is the US Department of Education required to update their guidance on Constitutionally protected prayer and other activities in public elementary and secondary schools every two years?
Is this a clear indication that sometimes unelected bureaucrats run amok?
Do the new guidelines only affect student prayer? Or do they cover other issues more broadly?
Did President Trump take the ‘bull by the horns’ to get this accomplished?
Can a student pray over their own meal in the lunchroom?
Can a religious club, whether they meet on or off campus, distribute religious literature?
If a school allows students to wear t-shirts with writing on them, can a student wear a Trump or religious t-shirt?
If a teacher assigns a project to deliver in class, can a student report on religious/moral issues?
Gateways for Better Education is looking for local advocates across the
country to help spread the positive message of religious freedom in public
schools. If you are interested, click
here.
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November 8, 2019
Title: Was Man Created By God?
Topic: Creation vs. The Big Bang
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
A recent Gallup poll discovered that 40% of people have Biblical
view regarding creation, 33% believe that God was just “involved”, and
22% believe our universe just happened.
Eric Buehrer is the Founder and President of Gateways to Better Education. Their goal is to equip educators, parents, and school leaders with ways to protect and promote religious and academic freedom regarding the Bible and Christianity.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Are the results from the recent Gallup poll surprising? Eric believes these numbers are actually encouraging! Listen as he explains why…
What was the age of the people polled? How did millennials respond compared to those over 50?
Is Christianity dead in America?
Can educators and students speak about Christianity in public education? Pilgrims? Indians? Merry Christmas? Candy canes?
Click here for more information on teachers’ and students’ rights in public schools.
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September 3, 2019
Title: Back to School Tips
Topic: Back To School Information
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
It’s back to school time! With the rare exception for some schools in Texas, most kids have started back to school by now. How are you dealing with this, parents?
If you need some advice, Eric Buehrer has some great tips! Eric is the Founder and President of
Gateways to Better Education. More information on religious freedom on
public school campuses can be found here.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Should parents and students be aware of their religious rights while attending a public school?
Is spiritual discernment critical in today’s modern world? Eric discusses predict and pre-teach.
Why should parents pray for their child’s teachers?
How often should parents express their gratitude toward their child’s teachers?
HINT: As often as you can!! Eric discusses “relational activism” …
Are students allowed to pray individually AND collectively while on a public school campus?
In addition to teachers, do school administrators and other staff need our prayers, as well?
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September 2, 2019
Title: Back to School Tips
Topic: Back To School Information
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
It’s back to school time! With the rare exception for some schools in Texas, most kids have started back to school by now. How are you dealing with this, parents?
If you need some advice, Eric Buehrer has some great tips! Eric is the Founder and President of
Gateways to Better Education. More information on religious freedom on
public school campuses can be found here.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Should parents and students be aware of their religious rights while attending a public school?
Is spiritual discernment critical in today’s modern world? Eric discusses predict and pre-teach.
Why should parents pray for their child’s teachers?
How often should parents express their gratitude toward their child’s teachers?
HINT: As often as you can!! Eric discusses “relational activism” …
Are students allowed to pray individually AND collectively while on a public school campus?
In addition to teachers, do school administrators and other staff need our prayers, as well?
More from this Guest More on this Topic More from this Organization
February 13, 2019
Title: A Teacher Different than the Rest
Topic: Christian Discrimination in Public Schools
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Eric Buehrer is the President and Founder of
Gateways to Better Education. Today, Eric shares an inspiring story of a teacher and a student who made all the difference…
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Who is Breanne? What did God do through her and another student, Sarah?
Why do Bible Clubs in public schools need to be initiated by a student?
Google “Go Gateways” for more information about starting a Bible Club in YOUR school!
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August 3, 2018
Title: Morality in the Classroom
Topic: Public Education
Discussed by Kim Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
What would you do if you learned your child’s unmarried teacher was
pregnant and the father was not in the picture?
Kim Buehrer is the Vice President of Gateways to Better Education. She
has one point of view on this situation. (Her husband offers more information in
the next segment.)
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Could this be a teachable moment about Christian morals?
Could this be a teachable moment to reach out with the love of Christ?
Could this be a teachable moment to teach ourselves and our children to look for
helpful ministry opportunities?
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Title: Morality in the Classroom
Topic: Public Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
What would you do if you learned your child’s unmarried teacher was
pregnant and the father was not in the picture?
Eric Buehrer is Kim’s husband. Listen as he offers his opinion on this issue…
Questions/Issues Discussed:
First, what is “Gateways to Better Education”? What rights do students
and parents have in the public school system?
How can fellow teachers help when another teacher is needing some extra love and
care, like experiencing an unplanned pregnancy?
How can students and parents show teachers the love of Christ throughout the
school year?
More from this Guest More on this Topic More from this Organization
December 13, 2016
Title: Christmas in Your Classroom
Topic: Christmas is Good for Public Schools
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
At Christmastime, teachers are often fearful of incorporating religious
activities into their lessons. Likewise, school administrators under
the impression that they cannot wish a student “Merry Christmas” or
allow students to talk about Jesus openly to their friends.
Eric Buehrer, with Gateways to Better Education, has the
answers to all your questions. For more information, click
here.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Can public teachers in public schools teach about the religious aspects of
holidays as an important part of learning about American culture?
Can music, art, literature, and drama classes allow religious themes?
Can students sing Christmas carols, including songs about Jesus? Can a nativity
scene be place on public property?
Listen in as Eric Buehrer quotes directly from a case concerning this issue.
Has the ACLU ever distributed false information, intimidating school districts
concerning Christmas songs, decorations, and lessons?
In an open assignment, can students write or speak about the personal beliefs
about Christmas? This can get kind of tricky, so pay close attention to Eric’s answer.
More from this Guest More on this Topic More from this Organization
May 3, 2016
Title: Picnic at the Park with a Jesus Message
Topic: Christian Discrimination in America
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
If a school allows its students an open-campus policy for lunch, meaning students are allowed to leave campus in search for lunch, why should the administration care if the students seek out a “Jesus Lunch”?
That is the question for Eric Buehrer with Gateways to Better Education. A school district in Wisconsin is upset because several hundred students are willingly – and legally – leaving campus to head across the street to a park to eat and have a brief five-minute devotional with volunteer parents.
Eric Buehrer has twenty-five years of experience in dealing with Constitutional rights for parents, teachers, and other school staff regarding their faith and the law. Today, he is here to explain the situation in more detail – how it started, why it started, and when it became such a big deal.
The school district first tried to tell the press that they were simply concerned about the health and safety of the students. What about the other 1,600 students who are still allowed to go off campus for lunch? Aren’t they concerned for their health and safety, too? Then, they tried to claim that students who weren’t there felt left out, but the lunch is welcome to everyone – all faiths, all races, all genders! “The school district is making fools of themselves,” Eric says.
The next part is the REAL kicker! The kids who don’t attend the picnic lunch at the park aren’t complaining about it – parents are! In fact, there is a group of atheist parents who are now protesting at the park while the students are having lunch! The funny thing is, though, that all this attention has increased the number of students who have been participating! “These students just want to have lunch together and talk about their faith,” Eric states.
Listen is as Eric Buehrer discusses his involvement, along with the Alliance Defending Freedom, to help the parents who started this lunchtime picnic. Eric has published a great FREE resource pamphlet which outlines the law regarding religious freedom on all campuses. This is for EVERYONE to use – not just those involved in this case. Eric says, “What Satan meant for evil, God’s going to use for good.”
Click here for more information on the National Free to Speak Campaign and to order FREE pamphlets for your church or school.
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March 17, 2016
Title: Who was St. Patrick?
Topic: St. Patrick
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Learn the TRUTH about Saint Patrick. It’s not about wearing green and pinching
people who aren’t. It definitely isn’t about drinking green beer and eating
corned beef.
This year, St. Patrick's Day is on Thursday, March 17. Easter is only ten days
later on March 27. Together, they provide teachable moments in public schools to
promote cultural literacy. However, there are some little known fact that kids
won't learn in school.
Did you know that Saint Patrick was the first person in history to speak out
against slavery?
Did you know that he was a slave himself who was captured as a very young boy
and sent to Ireland to work as shepherd?
Did you know that St. Patrick’s Day is celebrating this great man’s DEATH?
Eric Buehrer is the President and Founder of Gateways to Better Education. Eric
explains how Saint Patrick was an honorable man – a Christian – who is credited
with bringing the Gospel to Ireland. After he escaped slavery, he became a
priest and went back to his captors to preach the Gospel! “Thanks to Saint
Patrick, sometime during his lifetime or shortly after his death, slavery was
abolished in Ireland,” Eric points out.
Of course, none of this is taught in public schools! Saint Patrick’s life is
such an important part of history and it deserves to be recognized. He planted
over 300 churches and monasteries. He baptized over 120,000 people. “He
completely transformed Ireland,” Eric says.
Click
here
for more information about Saint Patrick.
For handouts to distribute in YOUR public school about EASTER, click
here.
More from this Guest More on this Topic More from this Organization
March 16, 2016
Title: Who was St. Patrick?
Topic: St. Patrick
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Learn the TRUTH about Saint Patrick. It’s not about wearing green and pinching
people who aren’t. It definitely isn’t about drinking green beer and eating
corned beef.
This year, St. Patrick's Day is on Thursday, March 17. Easter is only ten days
later on March 27. Together, they provide teachable moments in public schools to
promote cultural literacy. However, there are some little known fact that kids
won't learn in school.
Did you know that Saint Patrick was the first person in history to speak out
against slavery?
Did you know that he was a slave himself who was captured as a very young boy
and sent to Ireland to work as shepherd?
Did you know that St. Patrick’s Day is celebrating this great man’s DEATH?
Eric Buehrer is the President and Founder of Gateways to Better Education. Eric
explains how Saint Patrick was an honorable man – a Christian – who is credited
with bringing the Gospel to Ireland. After he escaped slavery, he became a
priest and went back to his captors to preach the Gospel! “Thanks to Saint
Patrick, sometime during his lifetime or shortly after his death, slavery was
abolished in Ireland,” Eric points out.
Of course, none of this is taught in public schools! Saint Patrick’s life is
such an important part of history and it deserves to be recognized. He planted
over 300 churches and monasteries. He baptized over 120,000 people. “He
completely transformed Ireland,” Eric says.
Click
here
for more information about Saint Patrick.
For handouts to distribute in YOUR public school about EASTER, click
here.
More from this Guest More on this Topic More from this Organization
January 19, 2016
Title: Students Insist on “God Bless America”
Topic: Student Rights
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Every day since 9/11, students at an elementary school in New Jersey
have said “God Bless America” after reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
However, the ACLU wants to put a stop to the optional tradition, claiming it is
unconstitutional. School district officials, under threat of a costly legal
battle, decided to no longer encourage students to say “God Bless America”
after the Pledge. The students, though, continued to recite the phrase, much the
dismay of the ACLU.
Eric Buehrer, with Gateways to Better Education, is here today to
provide more details about the situation. He says, “The ACLU believes that
it is a religious statement and the school had no place having the students
recite it.” But they just said “One nation under God” a few
seconds before! What’s the difference?
Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia has posed the following questions on a
similar issue: “To tell you the truth, there is no place for that in our
constitutional tradition. Where did that come from? To be sure, you can't favor
one denomination over another but can't favor religion over non-religion?"
Listen in as Eric explains the ACLU’s scare tactics and what the students chose
to do in spite of the threat. For example, since the students continued to
recite the phrase, the school principal informed the ACLU that the students have
the right to “freedom of expression”. But is that defense going to
stick? Time will tell.
Finally, Eric Buehrer discusses a short,
three-minute video produced by a school in North Carolina which outlines
students’ rights in regards to religious expression.
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October 6, 2015
Title: Take Your Bible to School Day
Topic: Religious Freedom
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
When it comes to your child’s education – public, private, or home – you only want the best, right? And we all hope that our child will be strong in their faith while at that school. One way your child can witness to others is by participating in the national “Bring Your Bible to School Day” on Thursday, October 8, 2015.
Eric Buehrer, with Gateways to Better Education, tells people: "If I opened a bank account in your name and put $1 million in it, but I never told you it existed, it wouldn't do you any good.” That’s why
Gateways to Better Education has a similar campaign called “Free to Speak”, where they educate students on their religious liberties at school.
“This is about free speech and free association. You can speak to whoever you want to, including your maker, about anything you want to, including your faith,” Eric says. He loves “Bring Your Bible to School Day” for this very reason. Listen in as he explains that students are not agents of the state; therefore, they can talk about their faith and read whatever they want to (during non-instructional time).
NOTE: Please review all the rules and regulations [here] before sending your child to school with their Bible.
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September 25, 2015
Title: When to Opt Your Kid Out of School Activities
Topic: Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Part 1 of 2
The new school year is in full-swing. I’m sure your
younger child has come home with a folder full of information about upcoming
events and activities to participate in. If your children are older, in junior
or high school, you might have received an email from the administration office.
It’s nearly impossible to read all the information and decipher what is
acceptable and what is not.
Many parents are not sure how to respond when they are confronted with something
at their child’s school that they don’t necessarily agree with. Some are fearful
their child might be bullied or looked down upon if they complain. Some don’t
want to be viewed as “that parent”. Some parents don’t even realize
they have the right to say no!
Eric Buehrer encourages parents to stand up for their beliefs and let their
voice be heard. First, he says to pick your battles: Is it really that bad? Ask
others to evaluate the situation with you. Oftentimes an outsider will help the
situation seem clearer. Also, make sure your facts are correct. Sometimes your
kid says one thing, but it is really something altogether different.
Listen to the next segment with Eric as he shares some more tips for parents.
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Title: Part 2 of 2 - When to Opt Your Kid Out of School Activities
Topic: Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
When questioning something taught at your child’s school, Eric tells
parents to pay close attention to the teacher. Is he/she showing a
bias toward what information is being taught? Is the teacher being fair or
sharing too much of their own opinion?
Sometimes children should be completely opted out of the activity and other
times it is a great opportunity for parents to teach their children a lesson in
discernment. Openly discuss the information being taught with your child and
encourage him/her to give their opinion and ask questions.
Inquire how long the subject or activity will be taught. The longer the subject
is taught, the stronger the effect will be on your child. The worst thing you
can do is let your child receive one-sided information from a teacher who may
not have the same morals and values you do.
For more information on this topic, please click [here].
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August 13, 2015
Title: Students and Teachers Have Rights, Too.
Topic: Tips for a New School Year
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Part 1 of 2
Even if you think your student knows the rules regarding what they can or
cannot do or say at school in regards to their faith, please review these two
segments with him/her.
Here are seven freedoms outlined by the U.S. Department of Education and quoted
in Free to Speak: What the U.S. Department of Education says about public school
students' religious liberties.
1. You can pray, read your Bible or other religious material, and talk about
your faith at school.
2. You can organize prayer groups and religious clubs and announce your
meetings.
3. You can express your faith in your class work and homework.
4. Your teachers can organize prayer groups with other teachers.
5. You may be able to go off campus to have religious studies during school
hours.
6. You can express your faith at a school event.
7. You can express your faith at your graduation ceremony.
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Title: Part 2 of 2 - Students and Teachers Have Rights, Too.
Topic: Tips for a New School Year
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Here are some more
tips parents can use – for both their students and their teachers:
1. Teach your child discernment: Are they detecting any bias in regards to
certain subjects they are being taught?
2. Pray for your child’s teachers: Teaching is one of the toughest jobs. Be
specific in your prayers.
3. Send your child’s teachers encouraging notes: Let them know what your child
likes about their class. Let them know you’re praying for them!
4. Student-led prayer is vital: Encourage your child to actually pray during the
moment of silence each day.
5. Bless other teachers: Even if you child doesn’t have a specific teacher, give
them an encouraging note or word, too! A smile goes a long way.
Click [here] for more information
and tips about student and teacher rights at school.
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June 19, 2015
Title: The Teacher is Always Right, Right?
Topic: Freedom of Religion Defended
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Has your child ever been told they cannot talk about Jesus or God
during an assignment? Have they been told that “religious” gifts
are not allowed to be given to other children around certain holidays? We live
in a society of “separation of church and state” and too many people
misunderstand this concept. Parents also often mistakenly believe everything a
teacher, administrator, or even Principal says regarding religion (or no
religion) being allowed in the classroom.
Eric Buehrer is a former school teacher-turned minister. He is here today to
explain your rights and the rights of your child at public school regarding
their religion. He says, “This information [regarding religious freedom in
schools] is directly from the US Department of Education, not from some
Conservative think tank.” The Supreme Court is also on the side of
religion!
Gateways for Better Education has some great resources for parents,
teachers, administrators, and even students. Click [here]
for the complete list of the Free to Speak Pamphlet direct from the US
Department of Education.
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March 13, 2015
Title: The Meaning of St. Patrick's Day
Topic: St. Patrick
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Kidnapped at age 16 and held for 6 years until he escaped. Praying daily for
his release, and after 6 years in captivity, he finally escaped and made his way
home. But he felt God’s calling on his life, and returned to the land and to the
people that held in captive for 6 years, converting, some say, over 120,000
heathens to belief in God, and established over 300 churches.
What do our public schools teach about St. Patrick? Probably nothing. Many in
Christian school or even home school do not know the real meaning behind St.
Patrick’s Day. It may surprise you to know that the holiday is not about
leprechauns and green beer. It’s about God’s love and saving grace.
This is a great segment to listen to with your kids of all ages! Click [here] for more on St. Patrick’s Day and other holidays.
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February 20, 2015
Title: The Meaning of St. Patrick's Day
Topic: St. Patrick
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Kidnapped at age 16 and held for 6 years until he escaped. Praying daily for
his release, and after 6 years in captivity, he finally escaped and made his way
home. But he felt God’s calling on his life, and returned to the land and to the
people that held in captive for 6 years, converting, some say, over 120,000
heathens to belief in God, and established over 300 churches.
What do our public schools teach about St. Patrick? Probably nothing. Many in
Christian school or even home school do not know the real meaning behind St.
Patrick’s Day. It may surprise you to know that the holiday is not about
leprechauns and green beer. It’s about God’s love and saving grace.
This is a great segment to listen to with your kids of all ages! Click [here] for more on St. Patrick’s Day and other holidays.
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January 19, 2015
Title: Leave Your Rights at the Door
Topic: Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Part 1 of 2
As a former public
school teacher and now a licensed minister and founder/president of Gateways to
Better Education, Eric Buehrer can relate to both sides of the
religion-in-schools debate. He says there are seven basic freedoms
that students and teachers have in public schools. These freedoms come directly
from the Department of Education – not from a religious group or organization.
First, students and teachers are allowed to pray, read their Bibles or other
religion material, and talk about their faith in public. They can organize a
Christian club or other religious group and even announce their meeting times
via the PA system, fliers, and bulletin board postings. Teachers cannot deny
students the right to talk about their faith or Jesus or God within class
assignments, homework, or even oral debates.
So why do we keep hearing stories about students being persecuted in school?
Eric says that although most of these laws have been around for over twenty
years, most principals, teachers, and administrative staff are completely
clueless as to what the law actual says.
NOTE: Please do not construe any information discussed in this segment as legal
advice. If you have any questions, please contact an attorney or Gateways to
Better Education.
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Title: Part 2 of 2 - Leave Your Rights at the Door
Topic: Education
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Eric Buehrer continues to talk
about the seven freedoms that students have in public schools. This was not
something Gateways to Better Education just pulled out of thin air. This is not
something the religious right has concocted. These seven freedoms are given
directly from the government and have been in effect since 1995. Most teachers
have never seen them. Most principals would deny they even exist. Make sure you
print out the FREE legal guidelines found at www.GoGateways.org
Teachers are also have rights while at work. Listen in as Eric explains that
teachers have the right to talk about their faith at lunch or the break room.
Teachers can form a bible study with other teachers. Teachers are also
encouraged to oversee student-led Bible and religious clubs. Don’t be shy about
your faith!
Eric also discusses whether or not students can attend outside religious
meetings during instructional time. Forty states have laws regarding this
matter. What about Texas? Listen in as Eric explains!
And what about sporting events or even graduation? If a student is chosen to
give a speech, they are allowed to pray and talk about Jesus, God, and their
faith. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!
Click [here] for more information on this topic.
NOTE: Please do not construe any information discussed in this segment as legal
advice. If you have any questions, please contact an attorney or Gateways to
Better Education.
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December 9, 2014
Title: Christmas Grinches in Public Schools
Topic: Christmas is Good for Public Schools
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
At Gateways to
Better Education (www.GTBE.org), they strive to create a better future for our
children by keeping God in public schools. They give confidence to teachers and
school administrators, while helping parents navigate the public school system
so their children can graduate with faith and values intact.
Eric Buehrer says your kids have the right to be bold and stand up for their
faith in their public school, especially at Christmastime. The Grinches come out
every year, bullying Christians into silence. But, as Eric points out, the
courts have ruled time and time again that students and teachers have the right
to talk about Jesus and sing Christmas “hymns” at Christmastime.
In Texas, we have a “Merry Christmas Law”, which allows students and teachers to
distribute religious cards at Christmastime. Eric says do not allow anyone to
bully your child into thinking they cannot give out a candy cane or invitation
to a Christmas play – they can! And they should!
What about school assignments, artwork, reading materials, and even clothing?
Yes, yes, yes, and yes! They are all protected and allowed in public schools!
To learn more about the Constitutional rights of students, teachers, and public
schools to seasonal religious expression, click [here].
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November 11, 2013
Title: Tis the Season for Censorship: Thanksgiving and Christmas
Topic: Censorship at Thanksgiving and Christmas Time
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Part 1 of 2
Americans United for Separation of Church and State love the Thanksgiving and
Christmas holidays. Of course Christians do as well, but for entirely different
reasons. What can students do in the classroom leading up the holidays? What can
teachers do?
Visit Gateways to Better Education
www.GatewaysToBetterEducation.org for more
information and forward the link to your friends.
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Title: Part 2 of 2
Topic: Censorship at Thanksgiving and Christmas Time
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Americans United for
Separation of Church and State will be very active throughout America over the
next weeks until the Christmas holiday in their attempt to intimidate students,
parents, teachers, and administrators.
Students and teachers are allowed to express their faith in reports, oral
presentations, drawings, gifts, and even in the selection of the songs they
sing. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!
Visit Gateways to Better Education
www.GatewaysToBetterEducation.org for more
information and forward the link to your friends.
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September 5, 2013
Title: Six Tips for the New School Year
Topic: Education Tips
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Part 1 of 2
Impact the next
generation by impacting your children and grandchild. Eric
Buehrer shares Six Tips (Habits) to form for this new school year:
1. Pray regularly for your children’s (grandchildren’s)
teachers.
2. Bless the teacher with an encouraging note.
3. Teach your children discernment.
Help your children learn to think critically. Predict what they may learn and
pre-teach your perspective on the topic. You are allowed to read their
textbooks.
Listen in.
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Title: Part 2 of 2
Topic: Education Tips
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Impact the next
generation by impacting your children and grandchild. Eric Buehrer
shares Six Tips (Habits) to form for this new school year:
4. Inform your children of their
freedom of religious expression when they are at school. This list is on the
Organization’s website: Students can pray and read their Bibles at school.
Students can organize prayer groups and announce their meetings. Students can
express their faith in their class work and homework. Visit the Organization’s
website and print the entire list.
5. Encourage your children to pray
each morning at school. A list of prayer cards is available on the website.
6. Be an encouragement to the
Christian teachers at school.
And Much, Much, More…
Listen in.
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November 2, 2011
Title: Major HOLIdays Coming Up, Are They Religious?
Topic: Holiday Season
Discussed by Eric Buehrer
with Gateways to Better Education www.GoGateways.org
Are there religious aspects to Thanksgiving?
Have Democrat and Republican Presidents alike issued proclamations about
Thanksgiving?
Has President Obama thanked Allah or has he thanked our God Jehovah?
Can public school teachers actually teach the religious aspects of Thanksgiving?
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