Editor:

My name is Jennifer Sicard and I am a parent of a child who attends Bonny Eagle Middle School. I would like to address the article printed Oct. 24 regarding Bonny Eagle Middle School not reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

I believe it was in poor taste to publish an article which makes the largest high school (1,300 students, 100 teachers) in the state seem anti-American and saying that the school has “lost respect.”

The high school Principal Beth Schultz was unfairly scrutinized. Not reciting the Pledge was not her decision. Teachers have always had the chance to recite the Pledge in their classroom, why aren’t they held accountable?

An investigation has been done to understand why the school has stopped reciting the Pledge and an appropriate plan is being developed to reestablish the Pledge. The plan will share guidelines and consequences for students, determine when and who will recite the Pledge, check the flags mounted in each classroom, and clarify the purpose and procedures with staff members.

The school does take pride in our country, as an example, a Veteran’s Day celebration will be held Monday, Nov. 10. They also have NJROTC students who take classes at Massabesic and the school has a variety of clubs and activities geared towards civic leadership at Bonny Eagle Middle School, a strong student council, a civil rights team, and a mock trial team, just to mention a few. 

And as always, the Pledge is said at all school assemblies and all athletic events. 

Jennifer M. Sicard

Hollis