COLUMBIA, S.C. A federal appeals court has upheld a South Carolina program that allows high school students to earn elective credit toward graduation through off-campus religious courses, a ruling supporters touted Monday as a victory for religious education.

Supporters said the decision by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals will likely prompt more districts to offer the option to students. Oran Smith of the faith-based Palmetto Family Council said it may end some school officials' fear of a court fight.

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