You may have noticed a new addition in classrooms at Westside, as well as schools across Nebraska, after the Governor and Attorney General approved a rule change. American flags have recently been added in compliance to the Nebraska Board of Education’s decision to require an allotted time for the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. This rule will be implemented in all Nebraska public schools K-12.

Increasing patriotism to the United States is the main goal of this practice, which science teacher, Michael Fauss, finds comforting.

“I like it. I think we should pledge allegiance and have honor to our country. I know people don’t want to say it because of religious beliefs, but this is our building, this is our county, and we should have a sense of belonging and a sense of care. Its a small piece but if that brings us back into what we do as Americans, then I approve.”

Citizenship to the United States is something everyone can share, however, it’s a certain religious commitment in the Pledge that raises questions. Because of this, participation is optional. “Pupils not participating in the recitation of the Pledge shall be permitted to silently stand or remain seated but shall be required to respect the rights of those pupils electing to participate,” according to the official rule.

English teacher, Amy Rector, is one who has concerns over the new requirement. Rector would have appreciated more of an input in the change, but is most concerned for the effect it will have on those students who do not join in.

“I wish that we could have had more of a conversation about it, and that it was not just a requirement. There are things that can negatively result kids. For example, I currently have students who are Muslim who have been called terrorists. If they were to choose to not participate, I think it could cause unnecessary attention.

I am not anti-American, in fact I incredibly value our right of ‘not having to do things’. It just worries me, but maybe it’ll be totally fine.”

Westside won’t begin saying the Pledge of Allegiance until next school year.