Pastor asks school system to be ‘neutral’ with policies related to religion at school

By Eddie West Staff Writer

A local pastor is asking school officials to be “neutral” when setting school polices pertaining to religious activities. 

Peytons Creek Baptist Church Pastor Josh Gibbs said he felt the need to come before the board to represent the Christian side of the issue.

In November of 2019, a lawsuit was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) against the Smith County School system on behalf of two families who at that time had children attending Smith County schools. The lawsuit alleged “religious beliefs were being promoted within Smith County Schools”.

An agreement in the lawsuit was reached between the ACLU and school system in September, 2020.

Pastor Gibbs said he realizes school officials have to abide by the 2020 court order, but felt certain school policies went beyond the agreement.  

“In 2020 you had to give up a little religious freedom (in schools) and I’m here to stand up for the Christian side,” said Gibbs.

School Board member David McDonald asked the pastor how he felt the school system could do better.

One issue noted by Pastor Gibbs was sports.

“There has to be limitations on practices. It’s breaking up family time,” the pastor said, noting he felt there should be no sports practices on Sundays and Wednesday nights. 

“I know there is pressure on coaches to win or lose their job,” commented Pastor Gibbs, who was a student athlete when he was in school.

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