Are Students Reciting the Pledge?

Every morning, we say the Pledge of Allegiance. But have you ever noticed how many students actually say it and how many don’t? Have you wondered what people think about the Pledge of Allegiance? With so many standing, their right hands over their hearts, mouthing the words, it’s hard to tell who is truly engaged. 

Some students take part in the Pledge of Allegiance. Avery Dinh shared, “Yes, I do say the Pledge. It makes me have more confidence in myself, as it’s empowering words to enlighten my day.” This indicates that reciting the Pledge can boost someone’s feelings and could make someone’s day better. Seventh grader Joselyn Merida feels the same way, stating, “I think it is important because it’s showing respect to our country and flag.” Reciting the Pledge shows respect for our country and those who have fought for us. A scholar, Kayla Ngyuen mentioned that students participate in the Pledge because they want to. She says, “I think the kids who say the Pledge either do it because they genuinely want to or they’ll do it because others are doing it.” Some students say the Pledge to show respect, others may do it to follow the crowd.

Teachers encourage students to participate in the Pledge. English teacher Mrs. Hudson suggests that students take part. She states, “I appreciate and absolutely encourage my students to say the Pledge of Allegiance. It is a way of acknowledging that this country is protecting them, giving them civil rights, and providing a free education until they turn eighteen.  In return, they acknowledge the values that our country stands for.” Also, science teacher Mrs. Velekei says that she encourages students to participate in the Pledge because it's a sign of respect. 

Not everyone agrees that students do the Pledge. In fact, more people seem to disagree. Seventh grader Mayra Campos states, “I think it depends if you’re actually from here. In general, I don’t think anyone cares if you do it because everyone will stand up but not say it.” This shows that students will stand but are not likely to actually say the Pledge. Another student named Amy Vieyra agrees, “I think that people who don't say the Pledge most likely don't feel comfortable saying it, and they might just be following their friends.” For these reasons, most students wouldn’t consider participating. Scholar Alondra Avila claims that it's too early in the morning, which may contribute to students' lack of energy. Mrs. Hudson also noticed this pattern: “They would stand respectfully but they did not want to seem ‘uncool’ by saying it.  I said it with gusto every day but I was almost alone!  Then about two years ago, kids started saying it again. My period one class will mostly say it.  Some with gusto, some in a whisper.” Some teachers admit that nobody other than them recites the Pledge.  The fact that even teachers notice students often choose not to say the Pledge to fit in shows how much peer influence matters. 

Clearly, some students won’t recite the Pledge and some will. Not participating in the Pledge won’t affect anyone. People feel differently about the Pledge. Whether you recite the pledge or not, students won’t care. Teachers, however, recommend participating in the Pledge but remember: it’s your choice.