Shhhh. Moment of Silence Returns to Lake Forest, Lake Bluff Schools

Illinois public schools will once again be legally required to set aside time each day for a “moment of silence” after a ban was lifted on the law earlier this year by a federal judge.

‘The Silent Reflection and Student Prayer Act’ gives schools the freedom to integrate a moment of silence into the school day that best suits the school. It does not specify how long or when the moment of silence has to be. 

“I don’t think there’s any harm in giving students time to quietly reflect,” said Superintendent Dr. Harry Griffith, of Lake Forest School Districts 67 and 115.

The Silent Reflection and Student Prayer Act was first required by law statewide in October 2007, with the purpose of silent reflection among students. Both Lake Forest and Lake Bluff schools previously observed the moment of silence before it was banned in 2009 because it was ruled unconstitutional by a federal court.

“There is no harm in having a moment of silence to start the school day,” Dr. Griffith said.  “It’s been simple and efficient and we’ve had no disruptions and no complaints.”

Lake Forest schools observe 10 seconds of silence every school day before morning announcements and classes begin.

While it hasn’t been a problem in the school, Dr. Griffith isn’t sure how much value is added for the students.

Lake Bluff Elementary School has not yet integrated the moment of silence into the school day. Administrators plan to incorporate it into the school’s ‘21st Century Skills Initiative,’ also known as the ‘2020 Vision.’

“I believe there is value in giving kids time to collect their thoughts before the day begins,” District 65 Superintendent Dr. John Asplund said. “The moment of silence would give our students an opportunity to think about what they would need to accomplish on a given day.”

Dr. Asplund said he didn’t think it would be a controversial topic with students or parents. “It’s just a moment to reflect,” he said.

Lake Country Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Roycealee Wood, believes the moment of silence will be a positive thing for students before starting the day’s activities.

“I believe it’s good for students to meditate before the day’s activities,” Dr. Wood said. “It has nothing to do with religion; it is just a moment of mediation and thought.”

Dr. Wood encouraged each school to observe the moment of silence in its own way so there is a smooth transition.

“We are confident that all schools will follow the mandate,” Dr. Wood said. “The school districts are aware of what they need to do. I’m sure they will all follow through and recognize a moment of silence in their own way that best suits the students.”

Dr. Wood said there will be compliance reviews to ensure each school is following the mandate.