The American Humanist Association’s Appignani Humanist Legal Center has submitted a complaint with USD 475 regarding the distribution of Gideon Bibles in Elementary and Middle Schools.

According to the complaint the association was contacted by a parent of a nine-year old fourth grade student who is an atheist at Seitz Elementary on Fort Riley.

It states, “On November 4th, teachers told students that they could leave the class to get Gideon Bibles, which were displayed on a table, and then return to their classroom to pack up for the day. The table was located in a hallway outside the fourth and fifth grade classrooms, which many students need to pass to leave school. After watching her classmates receive Gideon Bibles, the student felt uncomfortable.”

It goes on to say that the student’s mother contacted the school principal, superintendent and director of teaching and learning, none of whom addressed her concerns.

The complaint demands that the school and it’s authorities stop permitting the distribution of Bibles or other religious materials during school hours in elementary and middle schools. It also demands that all teachers be informed that they must not attempt to persuade or invite students to take Bibles during class time.

Dr. Corbin Witt, Superintendent of Geary USD 475 explained that the Gideons have been allowed to distribute Gideon Bibles for many years.

“What we have done in the past is told the group that they could have a table set up where the bibles were available. They could not approach any of the students, ask the students to hand them out or anything. They could just make them available,” said Witt.

After receiving the complaint late Tuesday morning Witt said they are still reviewing the complaint and reviewing the district’s policy on the matter.

“We need to re-examine what we’re doing, make sure that what we’re doing is acceptable to all. We don’t want to do anything that in any way discriminates or does anything that impedes on anyone’s rights or things like that.”

Witt did say that they may have to change their policies or practices but first they need to look over everything.

The American Humanist Association said they will give the district seven days to respond and avoid the possibility of future litigation.