S. 5147: Promoting Loyalty, Engagement, Duty, and Gratitude in Education Act

This bill would require elementary and secondary schools in the District of Columbia to follow certain patriotic observance rules each school day.

What schools would have to do

• Display the U.S. flag in every classroom during school hours.
• Require students and civilians to stand at attention when the national anthem is played.
• Hold a daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of the school day.

What students would have to do during the Pledge

• Stand with their right hand over their heart while the Pledge is recited.
• Not make displays that disrupt or distract other students who are reciting it.

Opt-out and exceptions

• Schools would have to notify students, in a handbook or similar publication, that they do not have to participate in the Pledge.
• A student may be excused from reciting the Pledge, including standing and placing a hand over the heart, if the student’s parent makes a written request.
• Schools would have to make reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities who cannot follow the required procedures because of their disability.

Who would be affected

The bill applies only to elementary and secondary schools in the District of Columbia. It does not apply to schools outside D.C.

Relevant Companies

None found