ACLU wants Ohio school's Jesus portrait removed

CINCINNATI (AP) - A federal lawsuit says a portrait of Jesus that hangs in an entranceway at a rural Ohio public school is in violation of the U.S. Constitution and should be removed.  

The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio and the Freedom From Religion Foundation say the large portrait at Jackson Middle School unconstitutionally promotes religion. The two groups seek a court order requiring the school to remove the portrait and prohibiting its re-hanging or any similar display.

The suit follows complaints by both groups to school officials.

School Superintendent Phil Howard said he was surprised the lawsuit was filed before the district completed its investigation. He said previously that the display has "historical significance" and "hasn't hurt anyone." Students donated the portrait, which has been in the school since about 1947.