RATIONALE/OBJECTIVE:

(1) Between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon each school day, students in the Cobb County School District shall be afforded the opportunity to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.

(2) Students participating in the recitation of the Pledge will be expected to stand, face the flag and recite the Pledge in unison.

(3) Students not participating in the recitation of the Pledge may (a) stand and refrain from reciting the Pledge, or (b) remain seated. Non-participating students shall in no way conduct themselves in a manner which disrupts the observance of the Pledge of Allegiance.

(4) Each local school administrator of the Cobb County School District shall be responsible for ensuring that students have appropriate opportunity for experiencing the National Anthem of the United States and other patriotic music on a regular basis and that instruction is provided relative to proper respect and behavior toward the National Anthem and other symbols of patriotism.

(5) A copy of this policy shall be distributed to each teacher in the Cobb County School District.

RULE:

At the beginning of each school day, a brief period of quiet reflection for up to sixty (60 ) seconds shall be provided to give students an opportunity to reflect on the anticipated activities of the day. This moment of silent reflection is not intended to be and shall not be conducted as a religious service or exercise.

Legal Reference: OCGA 20-2-50; 20-2-310; OCGA ' 20-2-1050

Adopted: 8/9/78
Reclassified an Administrative Rule: 9/1/04
Revised: 4/28/83; 8/8/84; 8/10/94