Public school graduation ceremonies with a prayer were addressed in Lee v. Weisman. What did the Court decide?

• A. Prayer at graduation is permissible
• B. Prayer at graduation is permissible if non-denominational
• C. Prayer at graduation is prohibited
• D. Prayer at graduation is allowed if led by students

Answer: (C)

The decision rests on the idea that public schools cannot sponsor religious activities at official school events. In Lee v. Weisman, the Court held that inviting a clergy member to deliver a prayer at a public high school graduation ceremony violates the Establishment Clause. The argument is that a school-sponsored prayer at graduation uses state authority to promote religion, and it places students in a position of feeling obliged to participate in a religious exercise. This coercive, official endorsement of religion means the practice cannot be allowed, even if the prayer is non-denominational or told to be optional. The ruling extends the principle seen in earlier cases that the government may not conduct religious activities in public schools. So, prayer at graduation is prohibited.