First-grader Caleb Zavala enjoyed talking about Bible verses and Bible stories with his friends. But the school wanted none of it — and sent a sheriff’s deputy to his home to tell him to stop.
Thank you for joining us for the First Liberty Briefing, an exclusive podcast where host Jeremy Dys—also First Liberty Senior Counsel—provides an insider’s look at the stories, cases, people and laws that have made America the world’s leader in protecting religious liberty.
First grade boys can sometimes get themselves into trouble. They wiggle a lot in class and sometimes they pull girls’ hair on the playground. But one California first grader found himself in trouble with the local sheriff.
Caleb Zavala’s parents opened the door one day to find a sheriff’s deputy waiting to tell them of Caleb’s alleged misbehavior.
What did this naughty little boy do that merited sending a fully armed sheriff to the Zavala’s home?
Well, Caleb’s mother often included Bible verses and Bible stories in Caleb’s lunch box and he often shared those stories with his classmates. School officials didn’t like that. And so they sent law enforcement to the boy’s home to make sure that the Zavalas got the message.
Now, think about what first grader Caleb learned from his school – if you dare to share stories about what you believe with your friends at school, armed policemen will stop you.
Caleb, if you’re listening, let me tell you something very clearly…
Your parents were right. Your school was wrong. You need to know that you can talk about what you and your family believe while you are at school. Those Bible verses that your mom is sending to you in your lunch… read them. And then share them with a friend.
Sometimes adults make mistakes, and your school officials made a big one. If that ever happens again, have your parents call us.
We would love to defend you!
First Liberty Institute is the largest organization in the nation dedicated exclusively to protecting religious freedom for all Americans. Find out more here.
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