I agree this never should have happened but, unfortunately it did. It really pisses me off the mosque's rep/guide chose to use a field trip as an excuse to proselytize. However, I don't consider the chaperone's motives are a secondary point to this discussion because but for the actions or inactions as the case may be, taken by that mother, those 5 children might have been stopped from participating.
You bring up a very good point/question:
I checked the MAS web site. It appears they do conduct these tours on a regular basis. I have to wonder why we haven't heard anything about this before unless this is the first time it occured. ???? I can't believe that children who might have participated wouldn't say anything to their parents? I also can't believe that if this has occured before how any parent would choose to ignore it and not make noise about it. I know I would if it was me. I am hopeful we will see some answers soon but you know how I feel about the media. If there isn't a good hook to a story or if they can't twist things to grab public attention, the story will die a quick death. BTW, here is a link to the MAS web site if you are interested in their side of the story. Of course, they have a completely different take on what happened and claim the rep was not proselytizing or attempting to convert anyone.
MAS Boston's Home Page