A Michigan elementary school has reversed course after reportedly banning at least one student from performing Christian music at a talent show.
First Liberty Institute, a nonprofit legal firm that defends Christian and conservative values, said West Ward Elementary in Allegan, Michigan, initially wouldn’t allow at least one student to perform songs by Christian artists Colton Dixon and Brandon Lake.
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Educators reportedly told the student in question the lyrics for the songs were too “Christian-based.” But that changed after First Liberty sent a letter to administrators, and officials reversed course.
“We are grateful for the school’s prompt attention to our letter and their recognition that the law is very clearly on the side of the students,” Kayla Toney, counsel for First Liberty, said in a statement. “Our clients look forward to singing their faith-based songs, as practiced and planned, at the talent show on May 23.”
Allegan Public School District Superintendent James Antoine said in a statement to CBN News that, once concerns were raised about the handling of the situation regarding the talent show, it was remedied.
“Upon review, it was determined that school staff were unfamiliar with the legal guidelines concerning religious expression in a public school setting,” the statement read. “To clarify: students are permitted to perform songs of their choice, including those with religious content, provided the material complies with the student code of conduct — particularly regarding language and theme. Religious songs have been, and will continue to be, allowed at school events like talent shows.”
Antoine said he was happy to see the matter concluded quickly and expressed apologies for any confusion or consternation caused in the process.
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Reprinted with permission from cbn.com. Copyright © 2025 The Christian Broadcasting Network Inc. All rights reserved.
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