Regulation 0601-10
Start of the School Day
The Pledge of Allegiance will be recited in every classroom in grades K–12 at the start of each school day, immediately followed by a Moment of Silence (60 seconds).
Moment of Silence Guidelines
Student Responsibilities
- Students will remain seated or stand quietly for the duration of the moment of silence.
- Each student may use the time, in the exercise of individual choice, to reflect quietly, meditate, pray silently, or engage in any other silent activity that does not interfere or distract others.
Staff Responsibilities
- Staff will maintain a quiet, neutral presence for the full sixty (60) seconds.
- Staff will not provide instruction, suggestions, or guidance to any student regarding the nature or content of the student's reflection during the moment of silence.
- Staff will not direct, influence, or comment on how a student uses the moment of silence.
Parent and Guardian Notification
At the beginning of each school year, the District will provide written notification to all parents and guardians that includes:
- Notice that a daily moment of silence of at least sixty (60) seconds is observed in all classrooms, grades K–12.
- An explanation that the moment of silence is a neutral, student-directed time for silent reflection of the student's individual choosing.
- A statement that district staff will not direct or influence the content of students' thoughts during the moment of silence
- Encouragement for families to discuss appropriate participation with their students.
Notifications will be distributed through the District's communication platforms to families.
Implementation
Each building principal is responsible for establishing a consistent school-wide schedule for the Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence, ensuring that classroom routines comply with this regulation.
Principals will communicate expectations and guide all staff before the start of each school year.
References: Pledge of Allegiance (33-1602) and Moment of Silence (33-1639)