Knowledge of and attitudes toward graduation prayer in Ohio public schools

Prayer at public school graduation is a topic that has generated a great deal of controversy, judicial action, and academic commentary, but little empirical research. In light of the absence of research on attitudes toward and knowledge about the law concerning prayer at graduation, whether nationally or locally, this study investigated the knowledge and attitudes of superintendents in Ohio on this important topic. The study focused on superintendents because as chief academic officers in their districts, they both guide board policy and help to shape attitudes in their communities. As such, this study examines the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about school prayer and examines the current status of graduation prayer in Ohio schools.;The results of the study provide a descriptive picture of the current status of graduation prayer in Ohio and superintendents' knowledge and attitudes toward graduation prayer. In addition to the descriptive portion of the study, a chi-square was conducted to assess if a relationship exists between prayer at the graduation ceremony (no prayer vs. prayer) and district size (1-1,000 vs. 1,001-2,000 vs. 2,001-3,000 vs. 3,000 or more). The results of the chi-square were significant chi2(3) = 21.42, p < .001, revealing that a relationship does exist and the null hypothesis was rejected. Another chi-square was conducted to assess if a relationship exists between prayer at the graduation ceremony (no prayer vs. prayer) and district location (rural vs. urban vs. suburban vs. other). The results of the chi-square were significant chi2(3) = 46.62, p < .001, revealing that a relationship does exist and the null hypothesis was rejected. Both outcomes support that there is a relationship between both district size and district location, which influences the chance of a prayer being offered during graduation ceremonies.