Williamson school board may pursue prayers at meetings

FRANKLIN – Williamson County school board members are weighing whether to challenge a federal ruling and try to add prayers to their public meetings.

The board’s long-standing policy of holding a “moment of silence” was questioned Monday night by some board members who want to explore whether praying should be part of the board’s regular agenda after the call to order and the Pledge of Allegiance.

But prayer at the meetings could mean a potentially expensive First Amendment legal fight for the board.

Citing a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, board attorney Bill Squires said praying at school board meetings has been ruled unconstitutional, though praying before public meetings such as at city council meetings remains legal.

Monday’s brief discussion revealed clear divisions among board members about a complicated, hot-button matter.

“How is having a prayer during our board meeting affecting any one of our 35,000 students?” said board member Kenneth Peterson, who said he supports prayer. “For me, ultimately the business of what we’re trying to do outweighs the first minute and a half of a board meeting. ... To me, it’s not something that ultimately affects the students.”

Board member Candace Emerson maintains prayer ought to be part of the meetings because of its value.

“A prayer has saved my life more than once,” Emerson said. “I’m just telling you, there’s an incredible power, especially when it’s collective. I know I would not be sitting in this chair today — on two occasions recently.”

WCS Superintendent Mike Looney challenged board members to think about the cost of the fight.

“Are you willing to stand up on a matter of principle and spend hundreds of thousands of dollars in attorneys’ fees to make a point based on your personal belief that may or may not align with those of other people in the community?” Looney said.

Williamson County board members’ next regular meeting is Oct. 16.

Reach Kevin Walters at 615-771-5472 and on Twitter @thekevinwalters.