Controversy Erupts In Frederick County Over Pledge Of Allegiance Debate

The requirement for students and teachers to recite the Pledge of Allegiance has sparked controversy in Frederick County. In late April, staff at Twin Ridge Elementary School were told that Maryland law mandates everyone to recite the pledge.

Aaron Terr of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) argued this contradicts the First Amendment, and a concerned staff member contacted FIRE. They sent a letter to the school emphasizing the right to abstain.

The school later corrected its stance, allowing individuals to opt out of the pledge. Opinions among local residents remain divided, with some supporting the mandate for unity and others advocating for personal choice.

FCPS officials reiterated that the right to abstain applies across all county schools.