Check out this amazing video clip from the CBS Evening News with Katie Couric:

Here’s the full article: Teaching Not Preaching in CA Bible Belt

Now take a minute to contrast this situation with what’s going on in New York City schools. I present to you the direct quote below:

But in Modesto, the lessons aren’t about distant cultures, so much as about the student at the next desk.

“So the only religion that actually requires the wearing of the turban would be what faith?” Taylor asked her students.

“Sikhs,” students answered.

Jaskirat Brar, a devout member of Modesto’s Sikh community, may stand out at Johansen High. But thanks to the world religions course he also fits in.

“Kids get to learn what I am and clear up misconceptions they have about me,” he said.

“Because we have the world religions course, the students are aware of what’s happening in our community and that certainly is something to celebrate,” Taylor said.

“Probably the best thing that I learned [is] how to respect the cultures and the religions and what they believe,” one student said.

Great job Modesto School District! You guys are an example for the rest of the country.