Humm...how about an early dismissal to go be a satanist?

In the UK the only subject inscribed by law is RE. Although core subjects like the 3 Rs are part of the core curriculum. In the 60s, we would have to attend morning assembly. A sermon and hymns were delivered and led by a member of staff. It was an inoculation against religion and a good argument against antidisestablishmentarianism.

Not sounding good at all.

This one is tricky but it certainly seems like violation. If I were you I'd contact the freedom from religion foundation. They are vigilant about these sorts of infractions and would probably be able to give you some insight into the legality of this practice. They may even take up the case themselves.

I think and firmly believe that religion in all state schools should be presented only as history presents it. No dogmas, no rituals, no forced belief systems, no punishments for being a non believer. Just straight fact including the Inquisition, Crusades, burning at the stake, pedofilia in the pulpits, etc.

Separation of church and state. Early dismissal should be illegal. Should file complaint against school system.

I think the government should intervene since they are using school time for religious services.

I think it is important to teach children about religion. All schools should teach religion (not as a science but as a philosophy). The problem is when you are only teaching children about one religion you are not teaching any more - this becomes indoctrination. Teaching children about anything as complicate as religion should not be done before the age of reason. Shouldn’t the child be given a fare and open view of all religions, so they can choose what is best for them vs. being taught the same guilt laden crap we were forced to digest. Christians in our country are every critical of the way Islam teaches their children. Christians do the same thing to their children but say it is in the name of the one true god.

Do a secular "field day" on the same day and time. Let them try to stop you. Bet you more than 1/3 would sign up for an extra recess to help them get in touch with nature.

I remember as a kid, going to catechism on Wednesday afternoons, to get our weekly does of "holies". I think we got out an hour earlier than the other kids ...

Not an easy thing to halt, unless maybe the kids that don't go - and their parents - raised a ruckus over some leaving early.