Superintendent Responds to Bible Objections

WHITE OAK — The superintendent of White Oak ISD issued a statement regarding the use of biblical scripture in high school principal Dan Noll’s “Thought for the Day.” According to KETK, A student recorded Noll quoting Bible verses over the intercom during the morning announcements. The student, who would not reveal his or her identity, turned the recordings of Noll over to Hemant Mehta, a blogger and self-proclaimed atheist activist. Former White Oak students say this has gone on for years, even back in the 70s, and they have no problem with it. They say it creates a positive energy and mood to kick off the school day. According to Mehta, he has reached out to Noll and the Freedom From Religion Foundation.

WOISD Superintendent Michael Gilbert (pictured) released a statement concerning being contacted by White Oak residents and FFRF lawyers. It reads, in part, “I am fully aware of the practice at the high school and will not pursue any action against our High School Principal or any other member of our faculty/staff concerning this issue. The letter from the FFRF is not the first received by the district. They contacted us in the fall with concerns about the practices at our football games. I have responded in accordance with their stated concerns and we have moved on.

“Let me be clear, this is an attempt to draw us into a contest of words for the sole purpose of giving the FFRF a large amount of free press/recognition that they and their very few members (1,200 in Texas) do not deserve. We can and will make the adjustments needed to ensure our students experience a morally sound, positive character based education. Let me also be clear that we have not (in my opinion) violated anyone’s rights and/or subjected anyone to undue stress. Bible studies and scriptures are allowed in schools. The requirement is that the material be presented in a neutral manner. It is my position that we met that standard with the morning announcements. My recommended response to the FFRF is, ‘I’m sorry you feel that way. I will be praying for you and your staff daily.’

“Finally, as a Christian Brother, it will not promote the values we hold so dear to assail those that disagree with the Gospel. We will state our case. We will make sure our rights are just as protected as anyone else that lives in this great country. We will continue to provide for all the needs of our students and we will do so while traveling the High Road. Don’t get drawn into a game of words that has no ‘winner.’ Please do not waste your time and effort on these few detractors.”