I Support the Ethics Trial in NSW Primary Schools

Dear Greg Piper
I am writing to add my strong support for the Ethics Trial  [more].
My fundamental belief in democracy has been repeatedly shaken by many people in positions of power. I don't understand and can't explain to my children - the resistance to allowing a fair choice and worthwhile option to scripture in schools.
There is and has been such a HUGE amount of support for a worthwhile option to scripture. Why is the democratic right of religious persons given more importance than the democratic right of a non-religious person?
Our school does not recognise 'no religion' on our enrolment form because our principal does not want to offend the 'nice old ladies' who come to teach scripture. Children who's families choose 'non scripture' are made to sit in the back of the scripture classroom - within earshot of the scripture lesson and are made to feel like they don't belong.
Scripture teachers give out 'encouragement' awards of books with religious themes, bookmarks, pencils and other 'gifts'. Is the department of education aware of the methods the scripture teachers use? Is the government aware of what is taught in scripture classes? Yes - there is a text but I have not seen evidence that the text is followed. I find elements of the text meaningless and offensive - who approved the text? Please take a look at the text and see for yourself.
Please allow Ethics as a complement to scripture - our community desperately needs to be able to discuss different ethical topics in an open forum - without fear or bias.
Liz Crane
Kilaben Bay