Already, there are sneaky attempts to instill values in our children. Health textbooks and curriculum teach values. Instead of the human, compassionate side, the books are barren and mechanic. This does not teach us to think with empathy or feel our wrongs, but simply gives rules which can easily be broken. America has been compared to Japan, yet we are really very different.
Japan has different rules, different logic, and different culture.
We cannot compare that which has worked for them with that which will work for us. We are two entirely different cultures, which should not be compared and contrasted in that manner. All religions have a record of providing a moral compass and dispensing wisdom to all people. While all these fears may be justified, it is time to stop the silent prohibition of religion. The fears that children become bullies is all dependent upon the parents.