Gay rights groups take issue with Karen Pence’s new employer

WASHINGTON (AP) — Karen Pence’s return to teaching at a Virginia school that lists “homosexual or lesbian sexual activity” as among the disqualifying criteria for employees is drawing criticism from the nation’s largest gay rights advocacy group.

The office of the vice president’s wife says it’s “absurd” to attack both her decision to resume teaching art to elementary students as well as the school’s religious doctrine.

Mrs. Pence began in the classroom at Immanuel Christian School on Tuesday and will teach twice a week until May. She has taught for 25 years, including previously at Immanuel Christian.

The school’s employment application lists “homosexual or lesbian sexual activity” as among the criteria that violates the job qualifications spelled out for employees.