Some OK Teachers Say 'Merry Christmas' Bill Not Necessary

Resisting the cleansing of religion from our schoolhouses; that's how one state legislator described House Bill 2317.

12/9/2013 Related Story: Oklahoma State Representatives File 'Merry Christmas Bill'

But the teachers we spoke to Wednesday feel that resistance isn't necessary at the state level. Music educator and former Oklahoma public school teacher Logan Rosenbalm enjoys his Christmas music, but feels the legislator's intentions for House Bill 2317 are only a nice gesture.

"I don't think it's necessary," Rosenbalm said.

Rosenbalm is also a Christian and wants to stand up for his religion on his own.

"My religious beliefs need to be protected but I don't feel legislation is the field that it needs to be fought on."

The official text of Oklahoma's Merry Christmas bill has yet to be authored, but a similar bill passed in Texas will serve as a platform. It states in part, "a scene or symbol associated with traditional Winter celebrations may be displayed but must include more than one religion or one religion and at least one secular scene or symbol."

"It's about the spirit of Christmas, not the displays or words that you say to each other," said retired teacher Kim Rudek.

Rudek, a teacher for 28 years, has a stern belief on the Merry Christmas bill.

"It is not necessary. How come? Oklahoma has bigger issues than allowing teachers to say 'Merry Christmas' and display Christmas scenes."

And while she was once advised to be careful with her religious displays, Rudek says she's always relied on her faith.

"I think it's all a silly distraction from what's important to education in schools," said Rudek. "If the law says you can't wear your cross and that threatens you maybe your faith is not strong enough."

Oklahoma Education Association told News 9 this really isn't an issue to them. No teacher has ever filed a complaint at the state level.