RE: Voices: School chaplain law sneaks in partisan ploy
The Baptist Standard proclaims they are “connecting God’s story and God’s people, but the article “Voices: School chaplain law sneaks in partisan ploy” does the exact opposite, using misinformation and opinion.
A vote for chaplains merely opens the door for school districts to create a policy for using chaplains. The bill only forces them to make a choice either to use chaplains or not.
Second, the idea of chaplains replacing counselors is based upon misinformation and is absurd. It came out of a rumor, because many school districts pay counselors out of the safety and security budget. If districts chose to hire chaplains as full-time employees, then chaplains would be paid from the same money pool, because all chaplains certified by the National School Chaplain Association earn several safety- and first-aid-related certifications and become first responders. However, if they chose to use them as full-time volunteers, it would not affect those budgets at all.
Chaplains are listeners and connectors. Rocky Malloy was clear in his interviews and written statements—and when I heard him speak—that chaplains are gap-fillers. They are a constant positive presence, making sure all students—regardless of color, race, gender, creed, orientation, etc.—are seen and heard and connected to the people who will help them feel supported.
One chaplain told me the administration asks her simply to walk around during lunch, so she has a presence. Proselytizing is never the aim and would not help her minister. She says her job is to be Jesus’ hands and feet to the students, staff and families represented by her district.
Those who signed the letter against chaplains moved before having all the facts and should ask themselves if their motives are pure. They should have directed their letters to Rocky Malloy, as God’s word directs all Christians to go to a brother in private. Sadly, they disobeyed God’s word and took matters into their own hands. They will be held accountable and should repent.
Joe Atinsky
Fulshear, Texas
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