N.Y. Education Law § 3029-a: Silent meditation in public schools

§ 3029-a. Silent meditation in public schools. 1. In each public

school classroom, the teacher in charge may, or if so authorized or

directed by the board of education by which he is employed, shall, at

the opening of school upon every school day, conduct a brief period of

silent meditation with the participation of all the pupils therein

assembled.

2. The silent meditation authorized by subsection one of this act is

not intended to be, and shall not be conducted as, a religious service

or exercise, but may be considered as an opportunity for silent

meditation on a religious theme by those who are so disposed, or a

moment of silent reflection on the anticipated activities of the day.

As used in subdivision one of this section the term "participation"

shall be construed to permit seated participation and not to require any

pupil to stand.