Saline agrees to wait for Michigan's decision on 'Pledge of Allegiance'
Members of Saline’s Board of Education decided Tuesday they would wait for the State Legislature to act before mandating the “Pledge of Allegiance” district-wide.
The Michigan Legislature is expected to mandate the "Pledge of Allegiance" in public school classrooms statewide.
File photo
At the board’s earlier January meeting, Rep. Mark Ouimet, R-Scio Township, said a bill (SB 0637) that would require students across the state to recite the Pledge of Allegiance daily passed in the Senate in November. The House is now waiting for it to come out of committee for a vote.
“I have the confidence level it will be approved,” said newly elected board secretary David Holden, who brought the mandated pledge proposal before the board to make good on a campaign promise.
He said he doesn’t want Saline to “chase the train down the track” and develop a district policy on the pledge to only later find the state has implemented a drastically different policy.
Slawson said it is time consuming to draft a policy and then amend it, so she, too, was in favor of a “wait and see” approach.
Several board members have started speaking with local organizations, Veterans of Foreign Wars posts and American Legions to explore the possibility of having flags donated to each SAS classroom.
The goal is to equip each classroom with a flag now, so the district is prepared when the law is enacted, said Trustee Todd Carter.
Holden said if the bill dies, he anticipates bringing the proposal back to the board at that time to hammer out a district-wide policy.
Saline High School’s student representative, Aaron Mukerjee, said he opposed mandating the pledge at the last board meeting but would like to know more about what is behind the proposal.
“I would like to see more discussion about our civic curriculum and to look at how we teach civic responsibility,” he said. “I don’t know where (the pledge proposal) is stemming from but if we do have a failed sense of patriotism and civic duty (within our schools), then I think we need to look at it from a broader sense … and see what we can do to fix that issue."
Trustee David Zimmer recommended “trying to make (the pledge) more relevant to young people” by having former Saline High School graduates who have served in the military come for flag raising ceremonies and to speak to current students about their experiences and sacrifice.
Although SHS junior Paul Popa is a strong advocate for mandating the pledge, at Tuesday’s board meeting he said he understood the board’s decision to wait.
“I know they have the best interests of the students and the community at heart,” he said, following the meeting. “I had hoped to see them enact (the pledge) soon, but I think they understand many people feel passionately about the topic and were trying not to upset people.”
Staff reporter Danielle Arndt covers K-12 education for AnnArbor.com. Follow her on Twitter @DanielleArndt or email her at daniellearndt@annarbor.com.
Comments
TFR
Sat, Jan 28, 2012 : 4:55 a.m.
You don't want to pledge allegiance to our country.... why not?
James
Fri, Jan 27, 2012 : 12:35 a.m.
"In my little town, I grew up believing God keeps His eye on us all, And He used to lean upon me as I pledged allegiance to the wall; Lord I recall, in my little town... - Paul Simon
Michael K.
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 5:57 p.m.
The 1943 Supreme Court case, from Wikipedia. Interesting. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Virginia_State_Board_of_Education_v._Barnette" rel='nofollow'>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Virginia_State_Board_of_Education_v._Barnette</a> I did not know that the pledge originally included a rather odd, Hitleresque, salute. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bellamy_salute" rel='nofollow'>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bellamy_salute</a> Personally, I will choose to invest my time and other resources doing something more helpful than fighting this. But I do hope they just let it go, instead of wasting our time and money on something already ruled unconstitutional. "West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette, 319 U.S. 624 (1943), is a decision by the Supreme Court of the United States that held that the Free Speech Clause of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution protected students from being forced to salute the American flag and say the Pledge of Allegiance in school. It was a significant court victory won by Jehovah's Witnesses, whose religion forbade them from saluting or pledging to symbols, including symbols of political institutions. However, the Court did not address the effect the compelled salutation and recital ruling had upon their particular religious beliefs, but instead ruled that the state did not have the power to compel speech in that manner for anyone."
Mick52
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 4:27 a.m.
Frankly I admire people who will say the pledge because they want to and I prefer knowing who does not rather then force them to do so.
stunhsif
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 1:33 a.m.
The Saline School board starts every meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and the audience participates. If it is " good and proper" for the School Board, why would it not be "good and proper" for the kids ? Go Green Go White
SalineBob
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 2:34 a.m.
If it's a feel good moment for adults then go for it. But they don't meet five days a week do they? Yes--go Green go White! Nice lead over the Gophers at the half.
SalineBob
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 1:16 a.m.
I think most students will be interesting in saying and talking about the Pledge only at first. And unfortunately it will become a repetitious blah blah blah. As adults--what if you assembled with your colleagues at work each day and made the recitation? It think it would get old and lose its value. I think the bit of time for students would be better served talking about what the words of the Pledge were really meant to say. (After all--it was written by a Youth's Companion magazine editor in 1892. And the portion "under God" was added in 1954). Like the flag--it is symbolic--which is a good thing. But what will the students take with them by pledging their daily oath? Patriotism, liberty and freedom are already being taught well in social studies, civics, history and government classes. I think the students would learn a lot more and be much more engaged in talking about how they perceive the many challenges we face as a country. Perhaps they could "tweet" about what they think about our local, state and federal government. They could express their comments on Facebook. They could send an email to a soldier overseas thanking them for a job well done. They could send an email to an elected official asking a question, stating an opinion, and urging a representative of the people to try a bit harder to get things done and spend less time bickering and engaging in political gridlock. They could become very savvy citizens by the time they reach voting age. I don't think you can make or maintain a person as a patriot by forcing them to recite a Pledge every day. Our children are smarter than that.
proudtobeme
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 12:17 a.m.
I wonder if any of the Saline parents who support the mandating of the pledge are the same parents who called a few years ago to protest teachers showing the first day of school speech that our president (Obama,that is) televised to kick off the new school year. It would be very interesting to know.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 11:42 p.m.
If I were a Saline teacher, I would stand tall during the pledge and show thanks to the men and women that gave their lives so that I could stand for the pledge.
Anders
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 10:29 p.m.
Reciting the Pledge of Allegiance DAILY? What is it? Cuba? Communist China?
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 11:43 p.m.
You obviously never fought for this country.
Scylding
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 10:23 p.m.
I wonder how many of the objectors, here, felt a sense of outrage at the multiple classrooms that were filmed in the last few years chanting things like, "Barack Hussein Obama, black, yellow, red or white, all are equal in his sight, mm, mm, mmm!" Furthermore, just remember, the Free Exercize and Establishment clause says that "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..." Reciting the pledge in no way constitutes the establishment of any religion. Two words, "under God," do not establish a religion. If the majority, or even a minority, wants to exercize its right to express its religious convictions in saying "under God," however, the clause does say that there is nothing anyone can do legally to stop it. Besides, get real, no child will be reprimanded for leaving out the "under God" portion. Everyone knows that that would precipitate a lawsuit in a New York second, and they will avoid it like the plague. As for objecting to saying the rest of the pledge, there's nothing in any post here that I find the least bit convincing. The irreligious minority in this country has been running roughshod over the majority for years, acting as though there is some prohibition against religious expression in public places. There is none, except for the fictitious "wall of separation" that secularists have been spinning from whole cloth for years. Yes, Thomas Jefferson mentioned a wall in letter, a letter to church men to allay their concerns that government would appropriate the prerogatives of the church, not to protect public, governmental environments from the church. As the clause above proves, the case is just the opposite. Religious people have every right to express their religion wherever they want!
Scylding
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 4:11 a.m.
@mun: Did you read the post? Nobody can force children to say "under God." Therefore, nobody is forcing any religion on them. And kids have to do all kinds of things at school. Some kids have to wear a uniform. None of them can bring a shot-gun to school. Yet, for the most part, they are still free. I doubt that the law will even require students to participate. It will likely only mandate that the teacher lead a recitation so that kids who want to participate can. Being given the opportunity to recite the pledge once a day will not diminish their freedom, but it may make them more cognizant of it.
mun
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 12:47 a.m.
<a href="http://www.oyez.org/cases/1940-1949/1942/1942_591" rel='nofollow'>http://www.oyez.org/cases/1940-1949/1942/1942_591</a> "[i]f there is any fixed star in our constitutional constellation, it is that no official, high or petty, can prescribe what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion, or other matters of opinion or force citizens to confess by word or act their faith therein." Supreme Court Justice Jackson in West Virginia School Board vs Barnette
mun
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 12:28 a.m.
"Religious people have every right to express their religion wherever they want" But they don't have a right to force their religion upon others. Besides how can you be for freedom, yet support forcing kids to recite a pledge?
Michael K.
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:59 p.m.
Yes. Ironic in the same way that the "small government" Tea Party and conservatives want to control every aspect of a women's body and sex life. Not to mention insisting on their privilege to determine who is " moral" enough to join in a civil union. Sort of how Newt is an "ironic" spokesperson for Family Values after his multiple affairs.
Michael K.
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 10:17 p.m.
I know! Can you believe it!?!? Not to mention the small government types are here begging for more laws to control what we say every day.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 10:10 p.m.
Oh wow !!!!
Hammer
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:50 p.m.
It's ironic that these AA liberals who spend every waking moment begging for more laws to control people in every facet of their lives are suddenly offended when they are asked to recite the pledge of alegiance.
Anders
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 10:30 p.m.
Control people in every facet of their lives? I thought liberals never control personal aspects of lives, only economic ones. 'Conservatives' do the opposite.
Hammer
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:54 p.m.
allegiance
Michael K.
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:31 p.m.
Yeah, those danged foreigners! Not me of course. My great, great grandfather founded a church in Wisconsin in 1870 when he had a dogmatic difference with his brother. And here I am 140 years later, a good 'ol boy non-Christian! Dang ferners! You are free of course to wish Merry Christmas to anyone. Don't be too surprised when my Jewish ex-girlfriend, or my Hindu neighbor just smile weakly. By the way - you wouldn't mind if I has some Buddhist monks chant prayers for you in Pali while they burn incense and pray for your reincarnation? Could we do that right after the pledge?
valerie
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:19 p.m.
i think all schools should say the pledge of allegiance when i found out that my son wouldnt be doing it i took it upon myself to teach it to him if people with other beliefs dont want to say it they shouldnt have to but it should not stop our american children whose familys grew up on this and possibly have families that have faught for this country from saying it. i just dont understand people come to our country to be free and because they want the things our country has to offer yet it seems that our free country is falling apart because we base everything off wether we offend other religions i dont think religion should be forced on anyone but i think it shouldnt stop something that has been a life long tradition from continuing. we cant say merry christmas anymore so we do not offend others yet i know a lot of people that do not believe in god and have other religions yet still celebrate christmas its getting rediculous foriegn people are getting treated better in a lot of cases then people who were born and raised in america. it frustrates me so badly that my son cannot come into school everyday put his hand over his heart and say the pledge of allegience. it breaks my heart to see what this country is coming to and i am by no means a racist person but i feel that our free country isnt very free anymore................ I AM ALL FOR MANDATING THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
Michael K.
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 10:10 p.m.
Redwings, coming from a different religion - I have the same concerns about putting country above other, higher ideals. I don't think you (sincerely, not sarcastically) need to try to be so PC. The important thing is having the real discussion, but we aren't really treading on egg shells. My Black friends are quite straight up and outspoken on race they just want a realistic recognition of differences that do exist, then we can talk! Cheers!
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:47 p.m.
More time on grammar and punctuation, less reciting pledges?
brb11
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:46 p.m.
Prime example of Poe's law, I think.
mun
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:43 p.m.
"i feel that our free country isnt very free anymore................ I AM ALL FOR MANDATING THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE" So you preserve freedom by forcing other people to recite a pledge. That makes sense.
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:34 p.m.
If you are ashamed that you can't say Merry Christmas anymore for fear of offending someone, than you should also uphold those of us that don't want this mandated. Go ahead and take God out of it (that's not my issue with it) and put it back to it's original form. I still don't want my kids being forced to recite it. I feel it is a form of forced nationalism which places country over God (excuse me, I need to be PC-My God). Why would I want to have my kids to say that when based on my beliefs, true freedom comes from Christ? (my beliefs-not intended to offend anyone else out there) But please, I await your flaming arrows for being "un-patriotic".
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:06 p.m.
What could be wrong with this idea? And why limit it to schools? Why not require pledges of allegiance by every employee every day when they arrive at work? After all, forcing pledges on the entire population worked out very well for Germany in the 1930s. Good Night and Good Luck
mun
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 12:51 a.m.
Hey Black Stallion 3, it is historical fact that Germans were required to say "Heil Hitler" or go to prison or death camps. EMG did not have to "be there."
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 10:11 p.m.
Were you there?
Pickforddick
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:03 p.m.
God isn't an option, He's a Necessity.........I hope my buddhist and athiest friends would agree.
Freight Train
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 12:22 a.m.
You entertain me Stallion. There is not fear of god nor belief in HIM. You should expand your knowledge of other religions as you believe people should do for yours. Atheists and Buddhists do not believe in God. So where is the necessity? Of course this does not mean that Buddhists and Atheists do not have strong beliefs or that they do not follow a moral standard. It is just different from yours.
mun
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:57 p.m.
Uh, free will? Anyone? Anyone?
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:57 p.m.
I would imagine the freightensotrain would go along with you on this
brb11
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:13 p.m.
Wait, what? Am I missing a joke here or something? Why would buddhists and atheists agree with that statement?
brb11
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:38 p.m.
The option for children to 'sit out' the recitation of the pledge is a terrible solution. Perhaps if these were adults, it would make sense. But most kids that age are far more concerned with fitting in and being accepted by their peers than taking any kind of political/religious stand. Heck, they are too young to understand the implications of a lot of it anyway (and too young, I would argue, to understand the implications of pledging allegiance to a flag). Even if each child is not legally required to recite it, if it is done daily in the classroom, there is no doubt that schoolchildren will be tacitly coerced into it, including ones who would otherwise not recite it.
mun
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:25 p.m.
Better yet, how about we require American corporations to recite the pledge of allegiance? Then they will stop sending American jobs overseas, right?
Ron Granger
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:47 p.m.
Right - because corporations are people.
mun
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:55 p.m.
Mandatory recitation of the pledge of allegiance only teaches obedience, not patriotism. How is this different from Nazi Germany requiring everyone to say "heil Hitler?"
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:39 p.m.
I say we spend time teaching our children about socialism and how to speak Chinese, not something silly like patriotism.
mun
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:46 p.m.
"Socialist military? In God we trust" Yes. "In God we trust" does not hide the fact that the military is paid for with our taxes.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:34 p.m.
Ben, are you suggesting that pickforddick is not allowed to "Trust in God"
Pickforddick
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:32 p.m.
Please explain it to us.....we are all ears.
Ben
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:26 p.m.
"In God we trust" - yet another creation of the fear mongering McCarthyism days... This was not our national motto until 1956... Please people go read a history book before you spout off on the internet about the history of our nation or the purpose our founding fathers laid out in the constitution...
Pickforddick
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:14 p.m.
Socialist military? In God we trust
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:05 p.m.
Huh? Please explain enso
Freight Train
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:57 p.m.
@enso don't forget our huge socialist military!
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:45 p.m.
Us lay people have a hard time understanding the higher ups....sorry
CanDam
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:43 p.m.
I think Enso's comment here is fairly straight forward... It really shouldn't need explanation.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:12 p.m.
You are funny mun
mun
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:07 p.m.
Better yet, how about we require American corporations to recite the pledge of allegiance? Then they will stop outsourcing jobs, right?
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:57 p.m.
Teaching our kids "Chinese" (could be Mandarin, Cantonese or others) just makes good business sense.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:55 p.m.
Please explain enso you baffle me
Enso
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:50 p.m.
Chinese are patriotic too. And your post office, roads, schools, police.. those are socialism. what's your point?
Enso
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:35 p.m.
There is much more to patriotism than blind allegiance to a piece of cloth. It's not teaching children anything to say the pledge everyday. It's not called 'patriotism,' it's called 'indoctrination.'
Anders
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 10:33 p.m.
Couldn't agree more. What's next? Broadcasting Voice of America domestically?
A2workinmom
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:26 p.m.
Right on, Aaron Mukerjee! He sees the bigger picture - why can't our elected officials behave more like him? "I would like to see more discussion about our civic curriculum and to look at how we teach civic responsibility," he said. "I don't know where (the pledge proposal) is stemming from but if we do have a failed sense of patriotism and civic duty (within our schools), then I think we need to look at it from a broader sense … and see what we can do to fix that issue."
HaeJee
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:26 p.m.
I am glad we stayed in Ann Arbor and did not move to Saline.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:34 p.m.
I am too.
Dave M.
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:54 p.m.
Saying the pledge of allegiance *every day*? I have a question for adults who think this is such a great idea; do YOU say the pledge of allegiance every day before you start work? Wait, don't say anything, I know the answer already. No you don't. This is idiotic. I look forward to the students rightly protesting this if they are dumb enough to try to implement it.
Another Michael
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:53 p.m.
Where does this leave teachers, in terms of free expression? A student can't actually be compelled to say the Pledge, regardless of district or state policy. Presumably, the same applies to a teacher: so long as she doesn't interfere with the practice, she can't be disciplined for choosing not to participate. Anything else is compelled expression, which is constitutionally prohibited. So what happens when a teacher conspicuously abstains, and is asked about it by her students? Can she discuss her reasons, even if they are rooted in religion? Or must the students be left to draw their own conclusions about her lack of participation in what they're told is an important show of patriotism? If Pledge recitation is to be mandated, it is an important lesson in civic awareness for students to understand why some of their teachers and peers refrain. On the other hand, it opens some interesting questions about how that could be handled without inviting other problems.
Another Michael
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:24 p.m.
Michael, thanks for sharing. It's important for people to be aware that ideological disagreement is not the only reason to oppose mandated Pledge recitation--that there are practical consequences as well. All this talk of "coming together as a country" falls flat when the policy in question results in harassment and ostracism of those with the courage to dissent.
Michael K.
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:39 p.m.
Thanks "Michael" for taking care of someone who is ostracized for being "different." That is one of the core problems here. There is so much pressure to conform, from the administration and from peers. On behalf of my son - I am glad there was someone there to help that other young man with his conflict. Thank you!
Michael
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:11 p.m.
When I was a student in Saline, there was another student who did not say the pledge at some school function; I think it was a home basketball game. He was harassed, continuously, by other students. I recall there even being an article in the student newspaper about it. The insults towards him were largely in line with comments here, especially close to Black Stallion's remarks. I wound up speaking with him, by chance, after we both attended a meeting for a school club. The reason he didn't participate in the pledge that day? He, as a Jehovah's Witnesses, can't.
Another Michael
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:34 p.m.
This is a good political strategy. If Michigan passes a bill mandating Pledge recitation, there will be nothing remarkable about Saline's policy and thus no reason to complain to the school board. If the bill fails, the board can use the cover of the inevitable outraged response from vocal citizens to quickly enact this policy. I hope it fails, but it's hard to criticize the maneuver.
Michael K.
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:29 p.m.
I am a Saline parent. As someone else mentioned above, we are also Buddhist. I am very religous, but as a Buddhist, I do not believe in anything equivalent to a "God." I know that is hard for many to understand. There is no way I can easily explain that to you here. I also follow some basic principles of my religion. One statement of those principles: "Do not force others, including children, by any means whatsoever, to adopt your views, whether by authority, threat, money, propaganda, or even education. However, through compassionate dialogue, help others renounce fanaticism and narrow-mindedness." I see a lot of fanaticism and narrow mindedness here among the "love it or leave it" crowd. I would be PROUD of my son were he to decide to sit silently, rather than rise and place his hand over hois heart and recite a pledge that included reference to a "God" that he does not believe in. I know how hard it is to single yourself out among your peers at that age, however. I won't ask him to do that, but again - I would see it as a sign of intelligence, creativity, and autonomy were he to recognize the coercion and remain sitting to articulate his (non) belief, and refuse someones elses arbitrary coercion.
CanDam
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:38 p.m.
This is a very important message that a lot of people will not care to think about or respect. When someone replies to this (or at least thinks it), "How you could you force your religion down your child's throat?" The answer, which should be obvious but wouldn't be to them, is that they are doing that. But in fact, you are not, as you have raised your child to think for himself. In the previous article about this topic, one current high schooler remembered from her second grade class, a student who chose to sit during the pledge because he was not Christian, and the other students made fun of him and ostracized him. Students have the right to be singled out and teased. One might think that high schoolers would be more mature in this regard, but in fact high schoolers just know how to hurt people even more. If I were a Saline teacher, I wouldn't stand for the pledge. Students with other beliefs need to know someone is on their side.
Michael
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:59 p.m.
Hrm. Many, many Michaels in one thread. For reference, I'm the one who posted the bible verse. I'll go and find a profile picture to use, to make this less confusing for everyone.
mavfunn
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:24 p.m.
As we can see from the authoritarian, reactionary conservatives, mandatory recitation of a pledge does nothing to instill a sense of civic ethics or patriotism. It's style over substance. After all, it's clear that they don't care much about the Constitution & Bill of Rights or the freedom of speech and religion of the students involved. But they think forcing children to recite a pledge (whose own history seems often unknown by its proponents--"under God" not in the original pledge?? It was written by a socialist?? Can't be!!) is a quintessential teaching tool somehow. They have no qualms about discarding the rights of others or even the Constitution when it serves their megalomania. They like to call this lack of empathy and lack of respect for the rights of others patriotism.
newsboy
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 4:14 p.m.
Little kid comes home from school and tells mom about the pelage. Opportune time to learn some new words from mommy!
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 3:53 p.m.
It's a shame that so many of you hate God the way you do......the day will come that you will wish you felt otherwise.
mun
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:28 p.m.
I don't hate God. I hate his followers.
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 9:23 p.m.
I would also urge the scripture that also says "not all who cry out Lord, Lord will be saved"
sh1
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:54 p.m.
I can read between the lines the glee you felt while typing that. I hope God wasn't looking.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:32 p.m.
Wow .....you are religious.....but what does boom mean candam?
Enso
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:24 p.m.
Again, Stallion, such a small amount of research could so enlighten... this one I will give you though. Matthew 6:5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Matthew 6:6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:09 p.m.
@enso............please be kind enough to show me that scripture so I know you are serious.....thank you
Enso
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:48 p.m.
Well then do as the bible teaches and keep your opinions to yourself. If I end up suffering eternal torment because god loves me so much, so be it. In the mean time, Matthew 6:5...
mavfunn
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:12 p.m.
It's interesting when objectors to mandatory PoA recitation are labelled as god-haters (an absurd concept on the face of it). It's like a tacit admission that some proponents do indeed see this as a tool for religious indoctrination in public schools despite their denials to the contrary. Apparently their religious beliefs are supposed to trump the religious liberty of others and the Constitution itself. There's nothing patriotic about that.
aawolve
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:29 p.m.
Ha, I believe that you believe that.
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:08 p.m.
Can you show me the post that exhibits this hatred of God?
Michael
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 4:31 p.m.
Matthew 6:5 American Standard Version (ASV) "And when ye pray, ye shall not be as the hypocrites: for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have received their reward."
ruminator
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 3:53 p.m.
Maybe we could get the Legion to arrange for a tank to be displayed in the High School Commons? That will teach the little buggers that the Board means business. Recite the pledge or ........... Welcome to the Peoples Republic of Saline. .
leaguebus
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 3:14 p.m.
Its funny how fast the Republicans lose their core values when they come to power. They have been campaigning against Obama since he was elected because he and the Democrats want big government which will interfere with an individuals rights. Now, they are trying to shove faux patriotism down our throats by making all kids, even ones that are not citizens, recite the pledge in schools. Next, it will be a small prayer to start the day, though the under God in the Pledge makes it sound like a small prayer. Pretty soon, we have to go to some church on Sunday?
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:05 p.m.
Did he scare you? Looks like it !
Freight Train
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6 p.m.
@pickforddick: Are you the messiah? How can you make such a cautionary statement without being so? To the moderators, if pickforddick is implying hellfire and brimstone, can this be seen as hateful speech or a direct attack?
Pickforddick
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 4:39 p.m.
"Pretty soon, we have to go to some church on Sunday?" Some day you will wake up and wish you had.
Mark
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 3:01 p.m.
Patriotism, under the guise of a forced mandate to recite a pledge isn't patriotism. Take a look at counties that mandated all citizens recite a pledge of some sort -- Libya, the old USSR, North Korea, etc. If you want citizens be "be patriotic" you engage them in the process of democracy, teach a true history of the republic and -- how people have made a difference, and have a government that actually helps its citizens to attain their goals.
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 3:10 p.m.
All of which our government does not do or does very, very poorly. Spot on sir.
rosewater
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:50 p.m.
I want the SAS Board to focus on more important issues like curriculum development, how to pay for things and ways to cut expenses. I want my elected officials in the Michigan House and Senate to do the say and stop wasting my tax dollars and start doing your job.
Wolf's Bane
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:26 p.m.
Jingoism, Heil!
Doug
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 3:11 p.m.
This is the 2nd space you've wasted!
Ron Granger
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:24 p.m.
I pledge to Rah-Rah Whenever I am told Like a drone Because if I don't I'll be ostracized and punished For exercising the freedom The flag is supposed to represent One nation under god
oldguy
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:16 p.m.
This topic entails both of mankind`s two biggest curses; nationalism and religion. The 'pledge' became a prayer when god got jammed in there in 1954 and patriotism is merely the bastard son of nationalism. Peolpe die for their country not a flag, and they die in wars started because of religion or nationalism. And don`t tell me to move to another country..that`s sooo trite!
xmo
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:15 p.m.
If President Obama doesn't have to be Patriotic why should we? After all, look at all of the destruction that the United States has caused in the last 100 years of wars. Why not simply learn to speak German, Italian, Russian and Japanese!
sh1
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:53 p.m.
I'm still trying to figure out how we can blame Obama for the last hundred years.
mun
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:09 p.m.
Better yet, how about we require American corporations to recite the pledge of allegiance? Then they will stop sending American jobs overseas, right?
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:35 p.m.
You forgot to mention the destruction that Germany caused by desecrating/invading the Baltics, Austria, France, etc....
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:26 p.m.
If I under stand you correctly XMO, you are in FAVOR of people being mandated by the government to cite a pledge written by a Socialist. On the face this appears to contradict every other post you have here on .com. Can you square for me your hatred of socialism and your professed desire to see students required to cite a socialist pledge?
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:23 p.m.
In Germany students were required to salute Hitler. In Russia students were required to honor Lenin. In Japan students were required to salute the Emperor. What is your contention that Obama is not patriotic based on?
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:14 p.m.
"No man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship, place, or ministry whatsoever." -Virginia Act for Religious Freedom, Thomas Jefferson.
brb11
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:12 p.m.
The Pledge of Allegiance is creepy. Forcing children to say it every morning is antithetical to the principles this country stands for.
Wolf's Bane
Fri, Jan 27, 2012 : 1:59 p.m.
What's next assault rifle training?
hmsp
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:06 p.m.
"the Court has squarely held that the government cannot require a person to 'declare his belief in God.'" "I conclude that, as a matter of our precedent, the Pledge policy is unconstitutional." Clarence Thomas
ruminator
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:04 p.m.
Class size over 40. Why do we still have an athletic budget of 1 million dollars? Did we really need to hire an assistant athletic director? What is the plan to replace our aging bus fleet? Why do we have an empty early Ed building? Contracts. Hey new board members. When you get your homework done, then you can play. Please take a pledge to work on the bigger issues at hand.
hmsp
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:59 p.m.
The "under god" part was inserted in by some zealots back in the McCarthy era, a time period well-known for its restrictions on life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Ben
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:56 p.m.
I would prefer if we educate out children about how the Pledge came to be in its present form. How the original pledge read: "I pledge allegiance to my flag and to the republic for which it stands: one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." President Benjamin Harrison 1892 Then amended by Congress and officially adopted on Flag Day, June 14, 1924 as: "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands: one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." "under God" was not added to the pledge until 1954 during the frenzy of paranoia that pinned communism and atheism as one in the same. Ignorance always seems to rear its ugly head somewhere or another...
Mumbambu, Esq.
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:54 p.m.
I agree with the Black Stallion. Actually, instead of regular lessons, I think the entirety of each day should be spent reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Anything less would be disrespectful. Who decided that the Pledge of Allegiance once a day was enough? No doubt another government bureaucrat with nothing better to do than tell us we shouldn't spend every moment at school and government offices reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. How quickly we forget! Also, we should have to recite it at every traffic lights. And at the U-scan at Wal-mart.
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:55 p.m.
Merry Christmas!
hmsp
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:53 p.m.
"What influence, in fact, have ecclesiastical establishments had on Civil Society? In some instances they have been seen to erect a spiritual tyranny on the ruins of the civil authority; in many instances they have been seen upholding the thrones of political tyranny; in no instance have they been seen the guardians of the liberties of the people. Rulers who wished to subvert the public liberty may have found an established Clergy convenient auxiliaries. A just Government, instituted to secure and perpetuate it, needs them not." James Madison
hmsp
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:49 p.m.
How about: "I pledge allegiance to the principles on which this Republic was founded, including, but not limited to, liberty and justice for all."
hmsp
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:46 p.m.
Those who would force us to say it don't seem to care that the pledge itself supposedly promises us "liberty."
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:12 p.m.
The question to be asked should be: "Who holds your freedom?" "Who holds your liberty?" All while they shout and yell about freedom and liberty from their podiums trying to convince us otherwise.
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:43 p.m.
North Korea and Mao would be so proud to see all of those little kids lined up reciting a mandated socialist written pledge!
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:01 p.m.
Didn't Germany do something like this in the late 20's-early 30's......with that one guy, what's his name? I'm sure it worked out really good for him and the people in the country.
hmsp
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:42 p.m.
@Tony Mullins Re: Love it or LEAVE it. At first I thought you were being sarcastic, dredging up that old, reactionary bumper-sticker phrase used against Vietnam War protesters. But I guess you were serious Perhaps you'd like to have another bumper-sticker from that era: My Country, Right Or Wrong!
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:01 p.m.
@ hmsp..... It is apparent that some can dish it out but not take it.
Gramma
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:47 p.m.
Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it. Those are the kinds of statements that were being repeated in fascist countries prior to WWII, I will ccontinue to work to make my country better because I love the USA.
Tony
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:47 p.m.
Works for me!!!
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:40 p.m.
Again, I ask myself, "with all the other more pressing issues our state house/senate could be handling/working on, what makes this a priority?" Is a failed sense of patriotism the root cause of all the problems in the country? No. Is mandating the pledge of allegiance going to fix ths country's problems and change the attitudes of children? Mostly likely no. Shame on anyone who says that if you disagree with this, you are un-pariotic and you should move. So nice to try and have a open discussion about an issue when people start hee-ing and hawing like a mule. Is mandating the pledge for our children now going to help them forget/feel better about all the debt we will unload on their backs when they get older?
Mick52
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 4:34 a.m.
I agree. I think there are more important issues to attend to.
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:52 p.m.
Aren't these ignorant bills always just a diversion tactic? Forgot that Schuette needs a distraction from all the heat from the MM law.
Gramma
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:43 p.m.
I believe that this is a diversionary issue to keep people from thinking about the real problems in our country.
America
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:40 p.m.
We said the Pledge of allegiance in the 70's and 80's in school. It was wonderful. I hope the majority win on this one rather than the few loud objectors.
HaeJee
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:25 p.m.
Wonderful? Must be easy to entertain.
Gramma
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:41 p.m.
The majority may be opposed to violating freedom of speech. I hope so.
Wolf's Bane
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:27 p.m.
Oh, wonderful, huh? What if you're an Atheists? This whole under god thing is a bit offensive.
Diane
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:27 p.m.
These days everyone makes such a "BIG DEAL" out of everything. Just do it. If you don't believe in God or for whatever reason sit down & shut up.
Mick52
Thu, Jan 26, 2012 : 4:33 a.m.
Thanks Diane for a good post. I don't think the govt can force someone to say the words. I do think that if a child does not want to say it at least they should show enough respect to stand up when the other do.
sh1
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:50 p.m.
Yes, that's right there in the Bill of Rights...
leaguebus
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 3:32 p.m.
I would suggest just the opposite, if you believe in God sit down & shut up.
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:37 p.m.
uh, when it is REQUIRED one cannot sit down and shut up, that is the point of a requirement.
Homeland Conspiracy
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:25 p.m.
What a weird picture
DeeDee
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:22 p.m.
This is so sad - we all love our country, and have different ways of expressing that love and our belief in the merits of our national values like individual liberty and freedom of speech. So, here we see people trying to make that love of country, yet another wedge issue to create divisiveness rather than inclusion. Plus, it is yet another "symbolism" vs. "substance" issue; the proper role of the schools is to produce kids that can read, write and do math well enough to function in and contribute to our increasingly complex society. When we have people graduating who can barely READ the Pledge, perhaps coming together over substance, and parking our personal views on symbolism (on both sides) would create better outcomes for our kids and our society.
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:45 p.m.
Best comment I have heard. Great analogy of the symbolism vs. substance.
Tony
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 12:56 p.m.
This is America!! Love it or LEAVE it.. Even those that "choose" to come here and take advantage of a better educational systen than is offered where they come from should abide by American policies.. When I went to school we said the pledge and the preamble to the constitution every morning. It was good then, and its good now. Like I said, Love it or Leave it...
sh1
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:49 p.m.
Our soldiers have died in wars protecting our right to love our county while disagreeing with some of its principles. Your Love it or Leave it attitude fits in perfectly with theocracies and dictatorships.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 3:47 p.m.
What do you believe in gramma?
Gramma
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:39 p.m.
I love my country. I do not believe in forced statementss of allegiance. I'm staying.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 12:50 p.m.
Why not at school?.....are they ashamed of their country and what it stands for? Is this what they are taught at home?
Tony
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:27 p.m.
In fact, if you care to learn the truth, go to wallbuilders.com , study what they have to offer, which is the proof of what this believed during its establishment, and do your own homework...
Tony
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:20 p.m.
@ sunk. I have read up on the founding fathers and found that they all had Godly beliefs. In fact, even the White House was used for Church Services on Sundays. Do your own homework...
Sunkmybttlshp
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:56 p.m.
@Tony This country was not founded on Godly principles, please go read up on the founding fathers and the believes they had. This country began because of people running from religious oppression. Acting like believe in christian god and patriotism are the same thing is wrong and shows a lack of understanding on the word patriot.
Tony
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:16 p.m.
You are absolutly wrong about this being a religious issue. You are taking the stand that it is making a pledge to God, when it actually applies to the Flag that represents this great country, which by the way was founded upon Godly principles. Now, if you are so "patriotic" then you will pledge your allegiance to this country, no matter what "religion" you are, or are not, OR you are just another un-patriotic person trying to destroy this Great Country, in which you are free to leave as well...
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:10 p.m.
Sorry if i am smiling...you understand I am sure
Freight Train
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:52 p.m.
@Tony, No Sir - it does not have everything to do with patriotism! One of the reasons I consider myself patriotic is the separation of church and state and the concept that it is patriotic to express a dissenting opinion. I for one do not want my children to be forced to pledge their allegiance to a Christian god. I also do not want to be forced to adhere to your opinion. This is what's great about this country.
Tony
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:16 p.m.
This has EVERYTHING to do with being patriotic. People pledge their allegiance to something every day. Their Home Land should be at the top of the list. If not, find someplace else to live...
Freight Train
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 4:27 p.m.
Why don't we just keep church and state separate, shall we? This has nothing to do with being patriotic.
AAW
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 12:47 p.m.
Maybe make it an option for any student who wants to say the pledge be able to. That would allow those who do not believe in God, those not citizens, and others out. Just a thought. I said it as a child through grade school but it was not part of the school day in middle or high school.
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:36 p.m.
Saying a rote pledge each day will do nothing to bring us together. Requiring students to adopt a god divides us.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:06 p.m.
Maybe make it an option if your boss pays you for working today if you don't perform to his standards......we have to stand together in this great country and stop trying to please everyone....we have to have values or we will eventually have no country worth anything.
sh1
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 12:35 p.m.
For those who support kids saying the Pledge at school, can you respond to this question: Can't families who want to say the Pledge say it at home in front of their own flag in the morning before they leave for work/school?
Dennis
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 10:42 p.m.
@Black Stallion - Forced patriotism goes against everything this country stands for. You should really look up the definition of personal liberty. It's one of the most basic foundations of the constitution.
sh1
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:46 p.m.
There seems to be a desire here not just to have one's own children say the pledge but to make all kids say the pledge. That doesn't sit right with what I learned about the tyranny of the majority in my government classes.
Terry
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:41 p.m.
Sh! Unfortunately based on some comments on this article some parents do not set that type of example for their children. I would fully agree with this being done at home if that were the case, but reading these comments and seeing the growing lack of patriotism throughout our youth and even at my age (mid 30's) I completely agree with the schools taking the initiative to recite the pledge. It is not even a minute of out the school day.
Brad
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:26 p.m.
That's exactly what I'm saying. They are at school to learn to think for themselves, not for indoctrination. Drinking a cup of coffee is hardly the same thing.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:03 p.m.
@Brad.....please....are you saying you go to work and have no coffee or bs with your co-workers? Are you saying there is no time for this in school?
Brad
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 12:53 p.m.
Excellent idea. Get all those non-learning activities out of the way without taking everyone's time. Do your prayer, pledge, yoga or whatever. What if work were like that? You get to work in the morning and then spend some time pledging/praying/whatever before you actually start working. Does that make sense to you?
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 12:49 p.m.
Why not at school?.....are they ashamed of their country and what it stands for? Is this what they are taught at home?
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 12:22 p.m.
"If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a Nation gone under" Ronald Reagan Something to think about
mun
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 7:11 p.m.
The US won WW1 and WW2 without saying under God.
Enso
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:39 p.m.
Allah is great too, depending on who you ask.
mavfunn
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 5:29 p.m.
Does it matter that we've only been "one nation under god" since 1954?
leaguebus
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 3:45 p.m.
So just which God was Ron talking about? The Christian one, the Islamic one, the Jewish one, the Buddhist one, the Hindu one?
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:43 p.m.
What makes you think this country is "under God"? Just because people might claim to believe in God or are Christians, doesn't really make it so. Do people in this country act like they are under God, or being watched by God? It seems to me that people wouldn't be doing half the stuff they do if they truly believed that. "They honor me with words, but their hearts are far away..."
Ignatz
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 12:46 p.m.
I thought about it and I still reject government support of any mythology.
mkm17
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 11:54 a.m.
Especially in the greater Ann Arbor area, some students are not US citizens. Those include children of foreign college students and employees in the US temporarily on assignment. Would those students be required to pledge allegiance? Some students and their families do not believe in God. Those students should not be required to say the words, "under God". School boards should not concern themselves with the issue of patriotism. And school boards should definitely not be requiring students to say the words, "under God".
redwingshero
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:50 p.m.
I hear ya Gramma
Gramma
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:35 p.m.
Some people believe in god and believe saying the pledge puts flag and country ahead of god, which they believe violates the first commandment, "You shall have no other gods before me."
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 11:47 a.m.
@David......Sir you do have the option of moving to a different district or to a different country for that mater. There are many people in this great country that have given their lives to defend it and showing a little respect by having our children say the pledge of allegiance at school should not be to great a burden for you to sustain.
HaeJee
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:15 p.m.
It is always funny how people's defense is to move out of the country............ Personally, my children never got anything out of doing the pledge when they lived in TN. I like that majority of MI schools don't force this down kids throats. I am not sure how you made a link to kids doing the pledge to respecting military people.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:08 p.m.
The train has left the station
Freight Train
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 4:04 p.m.
Stallion. I am as red-blooded an American as you. I am also a Buddhist and I do not want my children referring to an obviously intentioned Christian God unless they choose to. Perhaps you should move to another country if you think America, in its present state, isn't holding up well to your scrutiny.
Renee S.
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:54 p.m.
"You can move if you don't like it" is the silliest response, and I can't believe your reply has so many votes. It goes both ways. If you don't like it that saying the pledge isn't mandatory, you too can move. And given that you're the one trying to change the way things are, I think you should be the one that has to move! The issue is whether it makes sense to make saying the Pledge of Allegiance mandatory for every child in Michigan. Whatever happened to allowing the districts and individual schools some amount of autonomy? Does it fundamentally hurt the state if all publicly schooled students don't do this every morning: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Students_pledging_allegiance_to_the_American_flag_with_the_Bellamy_salute.jpg" rel='nofollow'>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Students_pledging_allegiance_to_the_American_flag_with_the_Bellamy_salute.jpg</a> Or should the Michigan legislature be doing something other than figuring out how to brainwash our students? Personally I would prefer if the state passed a law they had to recite their times tables every morning instead. At least they'd all graduate from high school knowing what 6*8 was.
Gramma
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 2:34 p.m.
I know many people who served this country in the military who would be strongly opposed to what you say. I do not have to recite a rote "pledge" to love my country.
james Kurtz
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 11:50 a.m.
Amen to Black Stallion.
james Kurtz
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 11:32 a.m.
The SHS board of education has every right to initiate this proposal. They feel a failed sense of patriotism in our country and passing this pledge legislation will inspire parents to instill a faith of liberty and justice in their children and grandchildren. Good for them and God bless America.
Dennis
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 10:37 p.m.
According to the supreme court they do not have the right to initiate this proposal. This proposal will only lead to one thing, a court challenge. The ACLU will gladly take this policy on and the result will be a lot of lost money for the district.
mun
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 8:57 p.m.
"passing this pledge legislation will inspire parents to instill a faith of liberty and justice in their children and grandchildren." That's right, instill faith in liberty by forcing people to recite a pledge.
David
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 11:30 a.m.
More Government trying to shove things down our throats, and forcing our own children to be a part of it. Is it any wonder so many people are hating our Government?
Terry
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 6:30 p.m.
The reciting of the Pledge in school is great idea as our children are sent there to learn in the first place. Sounds like you could use a little education on the greatness of this country, and the sacrifices people have made which is represented by our Flag and our Pledge. You seem comfortable using these liberties to voice your distain for our government, maybe you should take the time to respect the people who gave you these liberties. That is what the Flag and the Pledge are there for. I am completely disgusted by the comments I see on here even suggesting that this is in some way an infringment on our rights. I am literally sick sitting here reading this non-sense.
clownfish
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 1:34 p.m.
Telling people that disagree with a mandated pledge to move is antithetical to the notion of freedom.
The Black Stallion3
Wed, Jan 25, 2012 : 11:47 a.m.
@David......Sir you do have the option of moving to a different district or to a different country for that mater. There are many people in this great country that have given their lives to defend it and showing a little respect by having our children say the pledge of allegiance at school should not be to great a burden for you to sustain.