556 Policy: Released time for religious instruction

I. PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines and expectations where students are permitted to be released from school to attend religious instruction outside of the public school.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. In accordance with M.S. 120A.22, Subd. 12(3), any student, upon written application from their parent/guardian, may be released from school time activities for maximum of three hours in any week to attend religious instruction conducted and maintained by a church or religious body incorporated under Minnesota Statutes.

B. Such religious instruction must be conducted and maintained in a place other than a public school building and at no expense to the public.

C.The parent/guardian is responsible to assure that such religious instruction is in accordance with the ordinances of a church or religious body incorporated under Minnesota Statutes, and that absence from school to attend such religious instruction is reported according to normal attendance procedures.

D. A student participating in a program of religious instruction requiring release from class must satisfactorily complete class assignments missed through their absence.

Revised: 12/15/20

Adopted:  5/15/01 (formerly Policy 6515)

Adopted:  6/9/76                                         

Legal References

M.S. 120A.22, Subd.12(3)