MN SF1609

Prohibits public school districts from discriminating against students or parents based on religious viewpoint or religious expression, requiring equal treatment of voluntary religious expression with secular expression on permissible subjects.

Allows students to express religious beliefs in homework, artwork, and class assignments without penalty or reward based on religious content, with work evaluated on ordinary academic standards of substance and relevance.

Permits students to pray, organize religious clubs, prayer groups, and "see you at the pole" gatherings before, during, and after school with the same access to facilities and advertising as non-religious student groups, and allows wearing religious clothing and accessories.

Requires all school districts to adopt a policy establishing a limited public forum for student speakers at school events with neutral selection criteria, restrictions on obscene speech, and written or oral disclaimers that student speech does not reflect school district sponsorship or endorsement.

Directs the Commissioner of Education to develop and maintain a state model policy in consultation with school administrator and board associations, including guidance on religious expression, group organization, and procedures for investigating and addressing compliance complaints.