Principal warned over religious practices at Paloisten School in Lapinlahti

The principal of a school in North Savo has received a serious warning from the regional administration office regarding the organization of religious events at the school. At Paloisten School in Lapinlahti, daily meal prayers were recited, and the school day began with the singing of hymns. According to the regional administration, students did not have genuine freedom to choose whether to participate in these religious activities. The office stated that traditions or educational principles cannot justify forcing students to partake in religious practices at school against their will.

The warning was issued to the principal, who is practically responsible for the organization of teaching at the school. Paloisten School is a village school in Varpaisjärvi, Lapinlahti, with approximately 30 students. A complaint about the matter was lodged with the regional administration office at the end of last year.