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This month, U.S. Secretary of Education Roderick Paige, when asked whether Christian, public or private schools offer the best deal, responded, "That's a judgment, too. That would vary because each of them have real strong points and some of them have vulnerabilities. But you know, all things being equal, I would prefer to have a child in a school where there's a strong appreciation for values, the kind of values that I think are associated with the Christian communities."
Because of the statement, civil liberties and educational groups called for his apology or resignation, citing the apparent disrespect for "America's diversity and the public schools."
Secretary Paige responded to critics, challenging them to find "any modicum of a situation where there was some imposition of my views on another person." He added, "I don't think I have anything to apologize for."
Paige, a Baptist, said it was proper for the nation's public school leader to express personal views. "I grew up with my faith. I grew up with who I am."