Moody Bible Institute sues Chicago Public Schools over student teacher ban

A landmark lawsuit pits faith against policy as a Christian college fights for its place in public schools. Will religious freedom or anti-discrimination rules prevail?

, and Administrator

2025 November 8 . 1:13 AM

1 min read

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Moody Bible Institute sues Chicago Public Schools over student teacher ban

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) faces a lawsuit from Moody Bible Institute, an evangelical Christian college, over its refusal to allow student teachers from the institute to participate in CPS' student teaching programs. The institute alleges that CPS has violated its religious freedom and First Amendment rights by denying access to the program.

Moody Bible Institute, which operates a state-approved elementary education degree program, had intended to send its student teachers to CPS schools. However, the institute was denied participation due to CPS' non-discrimination rules, which it believes would require it to violate its religious beliefs on sexuality and gender. The institute has accused CPS of violating its constitutional rights and the Illinois Religious Freedom Restoration Act. Represented by Alliance Defending Freedom and Mauck & Baker, the institute is seeking a court order declaring CPS' actions unconstitutional and requiring CPS to allow its participation. Additionally, it is seeking unspecified damages and attorney fees.

The lawsuit, which challenges CPS' non-discrimination rules, has the potential to set a precedent for religious institutions seeking to participate in public school programs. The outcome will determine whether CPS can maintain its policies while respecting the religious beliefs of participating institutions.