Beyond what the Founders may have thought about church and state entanglements – which is what they were trying to avoid – the courts have consistantly ruled that the first amendment bars government action that leads to the endorsement, repression or entanglement with any religion. Government is defined as any agency of the state including schools, city hall, the court room or the DMV.
It is a misnomer to say that God cannot be mentioned in the school system. The courts have ruled that religion can be discussed as it relates to holidays or histroy, if it is germane to the overall discussion. That is why you CAN mention that Christmas is the story of the baby Jesus and his brith, and that Chanuka celebrates the oil lasting 8 days etc. They have also ruled that as long as religious holiday songs are part of a broader, SECULAR holiday celebration then it is ok. Same with the menorah or creche’ at Christmas. In and of themselves they are not illegal as long as they are part of a Secular display.
Notice in every case the state is not endorsing RELIGION (note the government is NOT allowed to endorse the concept of religion over non-belief), rather including religious beliefs with other beliefs. Even teaching ID, if carefuly done probably will fit the bill on legal issues – though an scientific issues its kind of like showing cavemen with dinosaurs.
I really wish those on the fringe left would understand what the courts have decided and quit baiting those on the other side who just want to be happy with their faith. More so I wish the blow hards like James Dobson, Pat Robertson and the like would understand that in this country they get to choose for themselves and NOT for me. When both sides respect the other and play within the rules then maybe we can move off of this issue and onto the very real problems facing the nation.