A coalition of parents from diverse faith backgrounds has filed a lawsuit against the Palo Alto Unified School District in California and its high school principal, Brent Kline. The lawsuit relates to a school-organized field trip to a mosque.
The complaint, filed on August 7, asserts that as part of the Social Justice Pathway curriculum, students visited a mosque. The activities included wearing religious attire and participating in religious activities, allegedly without parental consent.
“During the Fall 2025 mosque visit, students who were minors allegedly were provided with Muslim religious attire and encouraged to wear it while on site,” the complaint stated. “During that visit, students allegedly were provided with Qurans and taught that Islam, in particular, promotes social justice.”
The field trip included observing a prayer session, discussing worship, and interacting with a religious youth program. The lawsuit claims female students wore hijabs, and all students received Qurans.
The lawsuit was initiated by Jewish, Hindu, and Zoroastrian parents. They expressed concerns about interactions with Zahra Billoo, known for controversial statements. David Rosenberg-Wohl, the parents’ representative, expressed concern about public schools promoting Islam.
“In effect, kids are being told that if they are progressive and interested in social justice, Islam is the faith for them. That is not the business of a public school,” Rosenberg-Wohl stated.
The Muslim Community Association responded, emphasizing that exposure to the Muslim faith should not be seen as coercive. They urged understanding over reinforcing stereotypes and misunderstanding.
Superintendent Jason Glass is reviewing the claims but declined to comment on ongoing litigation. While some parents were upset, students defended the trip. “The Paly Voice” editor-in-chief Juni Thurston refuted claims of forced religious attire. She acknowledged concerns about Billoo’s involvement but noted her role was limited.
Adam Goldstein from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression weighed in, stating that requiring students to wear religious garments could violate the First Amendment.