Aericans United declared victory in its federal lawsuit against Bossier Parish School Board in northwest Louisiana upon reaching a settlement agreement in late January that protects the religious freedom of the public school district’s 23,000 schoolchildren.

Americans United scored a major win yesterday on behalf of students and families in Bossier Parish, La., after reaching a settlement agreement with the school board that protects all students regardless of their religious beliefs. The settlement, which includes policy changes approved by the school board last week, will end a more than year-long legal dispute over the promotion of Christianity in Bossier public schools.

“This historic settlement is a victory for all Bossier families, and will ensure that children feel welcome and included in their own schools, regardless of what religion they do or don’t practice at home,” said Rachel Laser, president & CEO of Americans United.