Secular reading at baccalaureate. Give me suggestions.

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the inclusion of a secular reading at a high school baccalaureate service, which is traditionally a religious ceremony. A user expresses discomfort with the religious nature of the event and seeks suggestions for appropriate secular readings, specifically excerpts from novels or philosophical works. Tolstoy's writings are recommended, highlighting their political and social themes. The conversation also touches on the nature of the baccalaureate service, which is described as a formal graduation ceremony.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of baccalaureate services and their traditional significance
  • Familiarity with secular literature and philosophical texts
  • Knowledge of Leo Tolstoy's works and themes
  • Awareness of the role of graduation ceremonies in educational institutions
NEXT STEPS
  • Research secular readings suitable for graduation ceremonies
  • Explore the works of Leo Tolstoy, focusing on his essays and social commentary
  • Investigate alternative graduation ceremony formats that accommodate diverse beliefs
  • Learn about the history and evolution of baccalaureate services in various educational systems
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and parents involved in graduation planning, particularly those seeking inclusive alternatives to traditional religious ceremonies.

zk4586
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Since it is "highly recommended" that all seniors attend the baccalaureate service after my high school graduation, and since the religious nature of such a service makes me uncomfortable, I was thinking of asking the principal to include a secular reading at the baccalaureate. If she agrees, I'll need to find an appropriate short reading (an excerpt from a novel or a section from a philosophical work, preferably). Any ideas?
 
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No suggestion here, but listen to this story: We had baccalaureate the day before graduation. I've never really cared about getting awards in front of a crowd, they just aren't a big deal to me. So I didn't go. The next day at graduation our key speaker was the governor of Nevada. Before they started handing out diplomas the governor called me up and gave me my awards and scholarships himself. I was the only one singled out like that so I suggest skipping baccalaureate altogether.
 
tribdog said:
No suggestion here, but listen to this story: We had baccalaureate the day before graduation. I've never really cared about getting awards in front of a crowd, they just aren't a big deal to me. So I didn't go. The next day at graduation our key speaker was the governor of Nevada. Before they started handing out diplomas the governor called me up and gave me my awards and scholarships himself. I was the only one singled out like that so I suggest skipping baccalaureate altogether.

Haha. That's pretty damn awesome.
 
What is a baccalaureate service? Does it have something to do with the IB program?
 
zk4586 said:
Since it is "highly recommended" that all seniors attend the baccalaureate service after my high school graduation, and since the religious nature of such a service makes me uncomfortable, I was thinking of asking the principal to include a secular reading at the baccalaureate. If she agrees, I'll need to find an appropriate short reading (an excerpt from a novel or a section from a philosophical work, preferably). Any ideas?

The works of Tolstoy are magnificent. I suggest his book (if which I am unable to recall the name of). His works concern political + social works and his insight into it all is very dramatic and has been admired. My sister read it at a very young age, and is still amazed by the book. The book consists of short essays.
If you wish for me to find out the title (which will be no trouble at all, I assure you), please say so. :biggrin:
 
Imparcticle said:
The works of Tolstoy are magnificent. I suggest his book (if which I am unable to recall the name of). His works concern political + social works and his insight into it all is very dramatic and has been admired. My sister read it at a very young age, and is still amazed by the book. The book consists of short essays.
If you wish for me to find out the title (which will be no trouble at all, I assure you), please say so. :biggrin:

That'd be great. Yes, please. Though Tolstoy was a Christian.

And in response to your question, it's just a more formal graduation ceremony. I don't really understand it myself. But apparently they're trying to get both a minister and a rabbi to speak.
 
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Even better! I just found the whole book online. Here's the address (by the way, this site is my favorite. It has a ton of books online from charles dickens to plato.):

http://www.readprint.com/work-1432/Leo-Tolstoy

okay, now all you have to do is pick a chapter.
 

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