DISTRICT CLARIFIES RULES ON RELIGION : MOORPARK SCHOOLS GET NEW SYSTEM.

Byline: Alicia Doyle Daily News Staff Writer

In an effort to clearly define teaching religion in schools, the Moorpark Unified School District has approved guidelines that clarify the purpose of bringing religion to the classroom.

The guidelines approved Tuesday by school trustees condense federal rules, the law and court rulings into a coherent resolution, officials said.

``The guidelines are very workable,'' said school board President Clint Harper. ``Before, there was a lot of confusion with what can and cannot be said in the classroom. This (resolution) provides some well-defined guidelines.''

In accordance with the California Education Code, religion in history is being taught in social studies classes in Moorpark's nine schools, officials said.

Originally written by school board member David Pollock, the resolution states that the board ``recognizes that an adequate education in American citizenship must include instruction about religions, their significance in history, their sources in culture, their moral and ethical constructs and their living examples among students, teachers, staff, administrators and citizens of our community.''

To provide additional support to students, the district's superintendent will be directed to recommend supplemental materials related to citizenship and religion.

Pollock decided to write the resolution after board member Tom Baldwin wanted the board to adopt a policy that set guidelines for religious expression.

Harper said the resolution will benefit both students and teachers.

``Students will also understand what's permissible and not permissible in the school environment,'' Harper said.