US youth wins in suit on teacher's bible comment

Last updated 09:08 05/05/2009

Relevant offers

A federal judge has ruled that a history teacher at a Southern California public high school violated the constitution when he called the biblical account of creation "superstitious nonsense" during a classroom lecture.

US District Judge James Selna issued the ruling Friday after a 16-month legal battle between student Chad Farnan and his former teacher, James Corbett.

Farnan's lawsuit alleged that Corbett made more than 20 statements that were disparaging to Christians and their beliefs.

The judge found that Corbett's reference to creationism as "religious, superstitious nonsense" violated the constitution's prohibiting Congress from establishing a state religion. Courts have interpreted the clause as prohibiting government employees from displaying religious hostility.

Corbett teaches at Capistrano Valley High School.

Ad Feedback

- AP

Special offers

Featured Promotions

Sponsored Content

Voyages blog pointer small

Blog: US/NZ - a cultural conversation

The changing ways we keep in touch

Greer wedding blog pointer small

Ready or Knot: Greer's getting married

Surprise! We're married!

Drivetalk small pointer Feb2011

Drivetalk: Dave Moore's blog on cars and driving

Bikers and drivers - pull yourselves together