It is heartening to read of the fine work being done with young offenders at Silver Oak Academy in Keymar ("In state's struggle to educate juveniles, a silver lining," June 18).
Clearly, when resources are committed and ongoing help is provided — particularly with emphasis on work and responsibility — lives can be changed and adolescents who start off on the wrong foot get a meaningful chance.
What troubles me about the program is enforced religious observance. The article states that "the formalities are part of a larger set of norms, such as prayers," and that among the very few personal possessions students are permitted is "a Bible or other religious text."
Because the operator of Silver Oak Academy is a state contractor, the requirement to engage in prayer and the clear promotion of religion infringe on the students' right to free expression. Our constitutionally protected freedom of religion in the United States includes the ability to opt out.
I am happy to have some of the high taxes I pay as a Marylander go toward educating and rehabilitating young people who might otherwise lead troubled and violent lives. But it is not right to spend tax dollars promoting religion.
Janet L. Goldstein, Baltimore