STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. — A Michigan school district has apologized to a high school valedictorian whose yearbook quote was removed because it included a verse from the Bible.
The apology was part of a legal settlement involving the yearbook of Stevenson High School in Sterling Heights, Mich., The Associated Press reported.
Abby Moler, a 2001 graduate, included Jeremiah 29:11 in her entry: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
At the time, school officials told Moler that her quote was deleted because it was religious.
The Michigan chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union announced the settlement May 11. Officials of the Utica Community Schools declined to comment.
The ACLU said the school district agreed to write a letter of regret to Moler and mandate that current yearbook staff not censor other political or religious speech.
It also agreed to place a sticker with Moler’s original entry in copies of the yearbook on file at the school.
“I’m thrilled,” said Moler, a college student who intends to pursue a career as a teacher. “I received a wonderful education from Utica schools and now that I’m entering the teaching profession, I wanted to do my part in maintaining the excellence in education.”
Share with others: