Keller @ Large: Sanity Prevails In Saugus Santa Dispute

BOSTON (CBS) - Further embarrassment was averted yesterday in Saugus when school officials who had tried to ban Santa from his traditional gift-giving tour of local elementary schools relented in the face of outcry from the public and, especially, from the local firefighters who each year escort Santa on his local rounds.

Listen to Jon's commentary:

But before we move on from this latest bit of bureaucratic seasonal cluelessness, let's see if we can't turn it into a teachable moment for one and all.

First, consider the Saugus school committee policy that the superintendent cited in his original decision to end the longstanding tradition.

It states, correctly, that the U.S. and state constitutions require that church and state be kept separate, and that there be no "sectarian instruction in public schools."

It states, again correctly in my view, that "the observance of religious holidays is not the responsibility of the public schools."

But it also states that the existence of cultural traditions with religious underpinnings is not to be ignored, and that the rules "should not be interpreted to preclude the factual and objective teaching about religions, religious holidays, and religious differences. Such instruction will be permitted in the schools since insights in this area can enhance the mutual understanding needed by all the people in a pluralistic society."

So far, so good.

Where the super went wrong was in dismissing Santa as purely a religious figure, when a little research would have shown what a shallow interpretation of history that is.

Santa represents the spirit of giving, of charity and goodwill toward humankind.

Santa recognizes the difference between good and bad behavior, and rewards goodness appropriately.

And for those who try to fully understand it, the Santa Claus story provides a crucial outlet for the caring instinct, something Saugus firefighters clearly get, even if a few other public employees did not.

The Saugus super says he'll let it go this year, but will push to re-evaluate the practice next year.

Better line your Christmas stocking with a baggie this weekend sir.

Coal stains are hard to wash out.

You can listen to Keller At Large on WBZ News Radio every weekday at 7:55 a.m. and 12:25 p.m. You can also watch Jon on WBZ-TV News.