I Pledge Allegiance...

Student Views on the Pledge of Allegiance in the Classroom

Watauga Students recite the Pledge of Allegiance

Watauga High School students begin each school day with a daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. JROTC students lead the pledge each morning in first block over the intercom. As students become more active in understanding their rights regarding the recitation of the pledge at school, they have formed multiple opinions and practices.

Section 1 of Session Law 2006-137 Senate Bill 700 reads as follows: “Local boards of education shall have the power of duty to require the Display of the United States and North Carolina Flags, and to Require the Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.”

However, this policy states later that “These policies shall not compel any person to stand, salute the flag, or recite the Pledge of Allegiance.”

Watauga students share their views on the pledge being required in schools and how they personally view the practice.

Sophomore Kasey Gragg shares her support for the pledge: “It’s important we say the pledge every morning because it shows respect to those who fought for our country’s freedom and the country itself.”

Gunnery Sergeant Jonathon Miller adds his perspective as a member of Watauga’s JROTC program. “Whenever I hold my hand against my heart, I’m pretty much giving my thanks to America for my freedom,” he said.

Miller and fellow student Captain Axel Albu discuss the importance of pledging among young students. Albu emphasizes the importance of the pledge as a unifying factor for children saying, “Since 9/11, it’s been a lot of turmoil and little kids saying [the Pledge of Allegiance], they’re all saying it for the same country.”

Miller said that kids “can be reminded every morning about their freedom.” He emphasized the importance of the pledge being taught to young students so they can make an informed decision.

Some students are adamant that the pledge represents respect and honor for the United States and its military. Others feel that it is a practice that is unnecessary at best.

Sophomore Hannah Rabinowitz shared her opinion, saying she has “never been a big fan of the nationalistic worship of a flag. The flag of ‘unity’ represents the stolen land we live on. The flag of ‘unity’ represents systematic racism that is ingrained into every part of American society. So, I sit in solidarity with those who are voiceless and to use my privilege for good.”

As a student who doesn’t choose to stand for the pledge, freshman Addison Parker does agree with GySgt Miller that the history of the Pledge must be taught in schools.

However, Parker feels differently about why that history is important. “I...don’t like how the history of it isn’t normally taught in public schools,” she said. “Growing up, the pledge was something everyone just did, no one even knew it was a choice. I didn't even realize it was a choice until the beginning of 8th grade. and I feel that now some people still don't understand that it isn’t a requirement. I think schools need to educate their students on the subject more, even in the younger grades.”

Administrator Ms. Rachel Shepard provided clarity on student’s options during the daily recitation. She said, “If students do not feel compelled to pledge, they are welcome to take a seat. I just ask that they remain respectful of that time.”

Shepard assured students that Watauga High School closely follows state protocol, requiring both a daily pledge and respect between all students. Whether students stand with pride, stand in hope of change, or sit in solidarity, Watauga must respect and advocate for every student.

The survey below was conducted among 178 Watauga students and was sent by several teachers in the English and Social Studies departments.

Check out these students' opinions!

Ella Pennell

I think the Pledge should be broadcasted in schools. The pledge is how we show our respect for this country. It is a big part of our history. The pledge was written by Francis Bellamy. The original version of Bellamy’s pledge read, “I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic, for which it stands,—one nation, indivisible—with liberty and justice for all.” He wanted it to be able to be used for several different nations. The pledge as we use it now means making a promise to our country and the people who are living in America. The words "One nation, under God, indivisible" mean "We are all one and stand together for this nation." The final lines show how we are free to make our own desions, and we should be fair and support the same rules for one another. [The Pledge] is a way to show our respect for those who have worked for our country. We should stop what we are doing and stand and remove all hats for the pledge. Standing gives honor to those who have lost their lives. When we stand we are all united. It is a time where we don't judge regardless of religion or race. The Pledge is a way to show we are blessed to be a part of this country.

Sara Smith

I do support the pledge of allegiance being broadcasted in schools, but it shouldn’t be required or heavily enforced. If you enforce it, it doesn’t seem to be something people that are proud of. Forcing people to recite the pledge won’t make people feel patriotic, they might not even think anything of it when they recite the pledge. It will be rehearsed—practiced, even. Long story short, it makes it less valuable and it could be overlooked.

Chloe Hemsoth

I don't support the pledge of alliegance being broadcasted in schools because it causes separation between students who do stand and those who don't. It's also unnecessary in all aspects. I think that everything would be easier with peers if we didn't broadcast the pledge of alliegance and expect people to stand for it. There's really no point other than upholding a tradition originally used to discourage treason during the World Wars. The line "under God" also proposes an aspect of religion that really doesn't need to be there, and actually wasn't even in the original pledge. I just feel like we should stop doing it for the sake of having a more unified student body.

Shelby Barker

I most definitely support [the Pledge] in schools. It is a part of our nation and should be a requirement for everyone to stand for it. It is a crucial part of our history and it can't just be a forgotten thing of the past. I feel like we are neglecting it, because in my first block only about four people stand for it. If you are an international student, it would make sense for you not to stand for it, but if you are a citizen of the US you should be required to do it.

Stevie Helms

I do support the Pledge of Allegiance being broadcasted in schools because I think that it’s important to honor the men and women who died to have the freedom we have today. I don’t think people should be made to do it but I think it’s still okay to have it broadcasted. I say it in my head while I stand and put my hand over my heart because nobody else is saying it out loud. I do believe in God and I know that may be a reason why some people don’t say it because they don’t believe in God. I know our country is not perfect and we have a lot to go before we get there but I do think it’s important to honor those who died.

Sidra Miller

I think the Pledge of Allegiance in school is an example of religious and nationalist indoctrination in our schools, particularly as it starts from the minute you start school to the day you leave. I don't think that's appropriate, since children should be able to come to their beliefs on their own terms.

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