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Florida School Districts Hesitant on New Chaplain Program

Despite state approval, many districts cite concerns over implementation, legal issues, and religious diversity.

The Satanic Temple stands ready to sue Florida if it's not allowed to participate in Florida's new school chaplain program. The temple is no stranger to raising controversy over religion: In 2014, it installed a holiday display in the Capitol.

Overview

  • Governor DeSantis authorized religious chaplains in public schools, effective this week.
  • Several major districts, including those in Texas, have rejected similar legislation.
  • Concerns include lack of training requirements and potential legal entanglements.
  • Districts with existing faith-based initiatives plan to continue their current practices.
  • A committee in Miami-Dade is studying the program, but a policy is unlikely before the school year starts.