Principal Jarmo Tikkanen defends religious traditions at Paloisten School in Lapinlahti

The principal of Paloisten School in Lapinlahti, Jarmo Tikkanen, has expressed surprise over a serious notice received from the regional administration. The Eastern Finland Regional State Administrative Agency noted that the principal violated educational laws by holding religious events at the school. Tikkanen argues that hymns and blessings for school meals are integral parts of local school culture and Christian tradition.

He described the decision as “paper-oriented,” suggesting that the agency may not fully grasp the daily life at a small school. Daily prayer before meals and morning assemblies with hymns have been routine practices. However, the agency interpreted these activities as clear violations of the law.

Usually, the agency issues such warnings very rarely, and complaints regarding freedom of religion are uncommon. Last year, only four complaints related to religion were processed. According to Anna Hakkarainen, a lawyer at the agency, most complaints lead to no actions, indicating that schools may not necessarily be in violation.

Religious instruction was abandoned in the 2003 curriculum, prompting questions about whether these practices had gone unnoticed or if Tikkanen views them differently. While parents have consented to their children’s participation in religious activities, the agency noted that traditions cannot justify involuntary participation in religious practices.

Sinikka Kervinen, the branch chief for Lapinlahti, deemed the agency’s warning warranted, stating that encouraging prayer is not part of school activities. She emphasized that schools must comply with laws and guidelines regarding religious instruction.

The issue has sparked discussions among parents, many of whom feel that the controversy misrepresents the positive atmosphere of the school. Tikkanen’s role remains intact amid ongoing support from parents, who claim public representation of the situation is severely distorted.