The school district will continue school ceremonies and observances which have become a tradition and a custom of the education program. These include, but are not limited to, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and the observance of holidays through programs and performances. Such ceremonies or observances will have a secular purpose and will not advocate or sponsor a particular religion.
Per Iowa Legislative House File 847, the district will provide and maintain suitable flagstaff at each school site and raise the Iowa and United States flags each school day as weather conditions permit. The district will also display the United States flag and administer The Pledge of Allegiance in each 1st through 12th grade classroom on school days.
Students who do not wish to participate in these activities may be silent during the ceremony or observance or receive permission from the principal [or designee] to be excused from the ceremony or observance for religious or personal reasons in compliance with board policy.
Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 7/11; 9/12; 9/13; 2/15; 4/18; 6/21
Revised: 12/07; 9/21; 2/24
Related Policy: 603.9; 603.9-R; 603.10
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 279.8; 280.5
IASB Reference: 606.02