Parents upset kids taught about Islam in school

WALTON COUNTY, Ga. — Several Walton County parents say their children are being forced to learn about Islam, and want the option to exclude their children from these lessons.

The teaching of Islam has banded together a group of upset parents.

"My daughter had to learn the Shiad, and the five pillars of Islam, which is what you learn to convert, but they never once learned anything about the Ten Commandments or anything about God," said parent Michelle King.

Parent Steven Alsup says what caught his attention was a statement on his child's homework: "Allah is the same God worshipped by Jews and Christians."

Alsup calls the statement a half-truth, and wants the lesson to include Islamists.

Georgia Department of Education Spokeman Matt Cardoza wrote the standard for seventh grade given to educators is to:

"Compare and contrast the prominent religions in the Middle East  Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. he says the teachers resource guide advises " "This element is not an evaluation of any religion, nor is it a course in the belief system of any religion. " Cardoza went on to explain when teachers teach beyond the recommended paragraph ... this is a teacher or local decision, and not one that is encouraged by the Department of Education or required by the Georgia Performance Standards."

Alsup told Channel 2's Tony Thomas he wants parents to be educated on what children are learning.

Alsup plans to meet with district leaders and address the local school board next month.

WSBTV