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Engel v. Vitale | BRI’s Homework Help Series

Description
Transcript

Is school-sponsored prayer in public schools a violation of the establishment clause of the First Amendment? In 1951, some New York schools began starting the day with a non-denominational prayer. This Homework Help video tells the story of the ensuing landmark Supreme Court case of Engel v. Vitale.

Related Resources

BRI’s Homework Help Series Video Playlist

Short, classroom ready videos covering U.S. History, Government, and Civics topics

Engel v. Vitale Viewing Guide

Viewing guide to use with the Engel v. Vitale Homework Help video.

Educator Resource

Engel v. Vitale Viewing Guide Answer Key

Answer key for the Engel v. Vitale viewing guide.

Engel v. Vitale (1962)

The saying goes “as long as there are tests, there will be prayer in schools.” And individual students can indeed pray for straight A’s or for other reasons. But the Supreme Court decision in Engel v. Vitale (1962) held that official recitation of prayers in public schools violated the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause. The ruling is hailed by some as a victory for religious freedom, while criticized by others as striking a blow to the nation’s religious traditions.

The Establishment Clause | BRI’s Homework Help Series

What is the proper relationship between church and state? In this Homework Help video, we analyze this question by reviewing the history behind the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment as well as how the Supreme Court has interpreted its meaning.