Controversy Over Advent Calendars in French Schools Sparks Debate on Secularism
Xavier Bertrand, president of Hauts-de-France, expressed outrage over warnings sent to schools in Aisne regarding the use of Advent calendars. Education Minister Anne Genetet defended the calendars as ‘societal and pedagogical’ tools associated with the secular celebration of Christmas. She clarified that the controversy stemmed from an individual initiative and confirmed that the use of Advent calendars in classrooms is compatible with the principles of secularism, as long as they contain no religious content. Genetet will reiterate these guidelines to school officials soon.