President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Betsy DeVos as his Education secretary. An advocate for charter schools, the new leader of the department is also known to have strong ties with Christian communities in Michigan.
Upon her appointment, an old recorded panel interview of Betsy DeVos and her husband, Dick, surfaced. It took place at a Christian conference over 15 years ago, where they talked about how public schools have "displaced" the church and its teachings.
According to Politico, the couple personally believe that Christianity in the education system could help "advance God's kingdom." They have hoped for the Church to be more involved in school functions so that students develop views in line with its teachings. Watch the said talk in the video below.
The pronouncements that Betsy DeVos made might be years old but it has raised concerns. Observers note that with her position as the Education secretary and her opposition for secular beliefs, she could likely divert funds to help Christian schools.
This means traditional public schools might end with little operation sources and government support to spare when she is in office. Observers also assume that with the new Education secretary, the line separating the church from the state will blur.
American public schools are supposed to be religion-free zones as declared by the Supreme Court, as per the American Civil Liberties Union. Hence, religion is not part of the curriculum and must not be taught to students. Institutions also cannot impose on a single belief or teaching as the truth but it may support religious activities of the students provided that their participation in these activities are voluntary.
But those who have followed Betsy DeVos' work among Christian groups say that the concerns are unfounded. The incoming Education secretary is not a religious fanatic who will use her position in federal government to advance her own cause, Canada Free Press notes. It cites that Betsy DeVos is a devoted Christian who has committed to serve her God and her commitment goes beyond politics.
What's your take on this? Will you support Betsy DeVos and her potential reforms in education? Talk to us in the comments!
