Redford decries Remembrance Day opt-out; school board say it's the law

EDMONTON - "Alberta Premier Alison Redford says she is disappointed at a decision by the Edmonton public school board to let parents pull their children from Remembrance Day services.

But school board spokeswoman Jane Sterling says they're just following the  province's own laws.

The Remembrance Day Act specifies that in the case of a ceremony being held  at school, "all pupils shall either attend the ceremony or remain in the school, silent, during the ceremony."

Sterling says some parents opt their children out for religious reasons because some ceremonies involve prayer.

The children still have to remain in the building and abide by the moment of silence.

But they don't have to gather with others at the ceremonies, which are typically held in gymnasiums."

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News:  Global Edmonton | Redford decries Remembrance Day opt-out; school board say it's the law

    Opting Out!?

    Some school boards across Canada are allowing students to opt out of
    Remembrance Day ceremonies.  Vets have voiced their disapproval over allowing kids to opt out of recognizing the troops who gave their lives for Canada's freedom. They say regardless of religion, the day is dedicated to commemorating the sacrifice of the country's troops who fought for the freedom of all Canadians.

    Is it acceptable to allow children to opt out or should the social standard of
    Remembrance Day be mandatory? (Courtesy of Military Minds)

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