With all the pressing concerns in education it seems unfair to ask educators to also referee religious conflicts. But there are a few things you can do to help

1. Don't take religious conflict personally. For the past three decades a convergence of historical forces has caused us to redefine the role of religion in public life. No one foresaw how these issues would be resolved and no national effort has helped the public understand why these changes help us all.

2. Train at least part of your staff in common ground thinking. Learning how to engage people on both sides of the religion and education debate is critical to containing conflict and finding mutual beneficial solutions.

3. Educate the community through public forums or Common Ground task forces that recommend policies and curriculum choices that promote fairness to all in your district. Religious neutrality is good for everyone.

4. Don't bury religious conflict. Where it surfaces help facilitate a community dialogue to resolve the issues consistent with Constitutional mandates and educate the community in the process.

5. Build bridges to the to faith communities, as you would other constituencies in your city. Cooperation with churches, synagogues and mosques can provide valuable resources, as long as everyone on campus appreciates the religious-neutral environment.

6. Keep informed. Religious Concerns Watch is a free service, provided by BridgeBuilders via email. It is a monthly update on court cases, legislation and ideas for building greater understanding between educators and people of faith.