[DaRuckus337]

Standing is in the rules, not reciting, and I don't think that's unreasonable. Standing is a sign of respect, not allegiance (that's what pledging would be). Disrespectful conduct of many kinds are against the rules in schools that would fall under the umbrella of 'protected free speech' for adults in life outside of the school. You don't have to listen to people in the real world when they lecture you, but ignoring the teacher in class is both disrespectful and against the rules. That's the way it is. School is about teaching professional conduct, and part of professional conduct is respecting other people and beliefs and following the rules. These kids failed on both counts, and were rightfully punished. Cry me a river for the school not respecting - on it's own grounds - the free speech of some punk kids who think they can act snotty and disrespectfully whenever and wherever they please. Consider this an important educational experience for the students, because such behavior WILL cost them in the real world.