As public schools all over Virginia began another rousing academic year on Tuesday, students were asked to observe a moment of silence before they began their day. Some were surprised at the announcement, others content, many still asleep. The new rule was in compliance with a state law passed earlier this year which mandates that all students at public schools observe a 60-second moment of silence. Conservatives have hailed the law as a promising attempt to instill values in young people and perhaps prevent another potential Columbine incident.
Liberals argue that the law is a clear breach of the separation of church and state.
The problem, however, lies in the fact that neither side is correct. With no potential for positive outcome, the law is a hotbed for controversy in a place where one would hope for teachers and counselors, not lawyers and politicians. In addition to its obvious potential for controversy, the law undeniably is futile in fulfilling the goals expressed by conservative politicians. The ineffectiveness of it stems from the fact that the Constitution does not give the state the jurisdiction to mandate that all students pray. In fact, the state cannot even encourage prayer.