GACB-AP: Patriotic Exercises

Pledge of Allegiance

All learners within the District must be given the opportunity to voluntarily recite the pledge of allegiance at the beginning of each school day. Administration and/or the classroom teacher shall provide a daily program that allows for the voluntary recitation of the pledge of allegiance. Learners may also receive instruction concerning the words and music of the national anthem, so they are able to recite or sing the words and recognize the music.

The District recognizes that the beliefs of some learners and teachers prohibit their participation in these patriotic exercises. No person shall be required or intimidated by other learners or staff regarding participation or non-participation in these exercises. No individual shall be required to recite the pledge of allegiance, stand during the recitation of the pledge of allegiance, or salute the American flag. All persons, however, are expected to show respect to others who choose to participate in the exercise.

Ceremonies and Curriculum

Schools may hold ceremonies and/or integrate information into the curriculum related to historically significant and/or patriotic holidays such as, but not limited to, Martin Luther King Day, President's Day, and Flag Day.

Voting

Learners who are qualified electors are allowed to leave campus to vote in a general, special, or primary election.

Adopted: 03/28/11

Reviewed: 10/04/16

Revised: 07/28/25