Federal judge rules against New Britain teacher placed on leave for refusing to remove crucifix from classroom

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (WFSB) - A federal judge has ruled against a New Britain middle school teacher who was placed on administrative leave for refusing to remove a small crucifix from her classroom workspace.

The United States District Court for the District of Connecticut upheld the Consolidated School District of New Britain’s punishment of 32-year veteran teacher Marisol Arroyo-Castro. The district has refused to allow Castro to return to the classroom since December 2024.

In the decision, the judge said Castro “acted pursuant to her official duties when she posted items on the classroom wall that students would see during instructional time. The classroom wall decorations are thus speech pursuant to Ms. Castro’s official duties and subject to the District’s control.”

“Today’s decision flies in the face of clear Supreme Court precedent,” said Keisha Russell, Senior Counsel at First Liberty Institute, which represents Castro. “We will appeal and continue to fight for Marisol’s religious liberty rights.”

Castro expressed disappointment with the ruling.

“I am extremely disappointed with the decision by the court,” Castro said. “I still hope that I will be able to return to the classroom and continue to invest in the lives of students as I have my whole teaching career.”

Castro was told on December 6, 2024, to remove the crucifix from near her desk or face discipline for insubordination. After initially hiding it and then returning it to its original location, she was suspended without pay for two days.

An independent investigation found that Castro also made religious comments to students, telling them “I hope papa God helps you with your lies” or “go find God” when reprimanding bad behavior.

Castro is currently serving in an administrative role away from students while her legal team prepares an appeal.