Schools Call Off Assemblies Planned By Ministers
Superintendent Says District Doesn’t Want To Cross Separation Of Church, State
Updated: 11:29 am CST February 1, 2007
MILWAUKEE -- A group of southern Wisconsin public schools are calling off scheduled assemblies by ordained ministers who use feats of strength to encourage students to make good choices and resist drugs and alcohol.The appearances by the so-called Power Team had been scheduled at schools in Fort Atkinson, Jefferson, Milton, Palmyra-Eagle and Whitewater.Although the administrators didn't single out any particular reason for canceling the Power Team's performance, Jefferson Superintendent Mike Swartz said that his district didn't want to cross the line on separation of church and state.On its Web site, the Power Team boasts "Family-Focused Evangelism for over 30 Years!"But Mike Wilding, an events manager for the Texas-based Power Team, said that the group is careful not to invoke politics or religion when performing in public schools.
Copyright 2007 by Channel 3000. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.







