Judge Extends Temporary Restraining Order Protecting Cheerleaders' Religious Speech

KISD Superintendent Concedes He Received "Bad Legal Advice"

KOUNTZE, Texas, Oct. 4, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, Beaumont attorney David Starnes and Liberty Institute represented the Kountze ISD cheerleaders on the eve of the first varsity home football game since the TRO was put into place. The District Court extended the temporary restraining order for two more weeks during the all-day and at times emotional public hearing. The ruling allows the cheerleaders to display the religious banner they already made that includes the words: "Run with endurance the race that God has set before you."

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"We are optimistic that the judge will rule in our favor based upon today's proceedings," said Mike Johnson, Senior Counsel for Liberty Institute.  "We are especially pleased with the testimony of the Superintendent, who testified that his actions in banning the cheerleaders' signs violated school policy and that he did so because he received bad legal advice from the school district's attorney." 

Liberty Institute attorneys will be in attendance at tomorrow night's game. A large crowd is expected to support the cheerleaders.

Liberty Institute is a nonprofit legal group dedicated to defending and restoring religious liberty across America — in our schools, for our churches and throughout the public arena. Liberty's vision is to reestablish religious liberty in accordance with the principles of our Founding Fathers. For information, visit www.LibertyInstitute.org.

SOURCE Liberty Institute