Students at Twin Peaks Middle School are getting a different introduction to the Pledge of Allegiance each morning and it's creating a controversy for the Poway Unified School District.
This school year, the principal has been telling students quote,"for those who wish to participate to please stand, others please stand or sit quietly."
Previously, the principal would only say "please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance." But school administrators said the parents of one child complained that students felt obligated to participate, even though they have a right not too.
Some parents are upset that the principal must now remind students that they have a choice when it comes to participating in the Pledge of Allegiance.
"Students that normally would stand were now choosing to sit," said one unidentified parent. "And I asked my son why do you think they're sitting, and he said well, one guy thought it would be funny."
Other parents believe the school district shouldn't change procedure for everyone just to appease one family.
"I'm sure it was well meaning, an attempt at inclusiveness, and compromise, but it's wrong," said parent Steve Vaus.
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But one parent who spoke at a district meeting on Monday night said it is important to remind students of their rights.
"Some people don't like the part about "under God" and in America you're not forced to say things like that," said parent Russell Wright.
School administrators said they have worked out a compromise. The principal will now say "It is time for the Pledge of Allegiance, those of you who wish to participate, please stand, ready, begin."
The school board will discuss the issue again at their October meeting.
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