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 Albudiscuss 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.
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