Flag The

Classroom

Why Is The American Flag Important?

Throughout history, the American flag has been a symbol of freedom and hope to people across the globe.

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It represents countless lives that have been lost fighting for freedom, for Americans, and others.

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This is why it is important for students to recognize and respect the flag in schools!

Yet The American Flag Has Been Under Attack In Many Schools

Sources: The Post Millennial, Daily Caller

History of The American Flag

Evolution of The American Flag

Sources: Britannica, History Channel

The Story Of The Current Day Flag

In 1958, high school student Robert Heft brought in a 50 star American Flag he designed for a school assignment having heard two new states would soon be added.

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His teacher gave him a B and challenged him to get the flag to Washington.

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In 1960, after many calls and help from a state representative Heft was invited to White House where he got to see his design become the official American Flag!

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It is the longest running U.S flag in history.

Source: Readers Digest

What Does Each Part Of The Flag Mean?

Source: USA.Gov

The American Flag Also Has Rules For It’s Care And Hanging

The flag should never touch the ground.

The flag should not be draped over a car hood or anything similar.

The flag should never be soiled, torn, or damaged in anyway.

There is a U.S Flag Code which dictates how to display and dispose of American flags with respect.

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It includes many rules like:

Source: U.S Flag Code

Many Americans Damage The Flag In Protest

Discussion Question

Do you think that it should legal to purposely burn, tear, and soil the American Flag?

How Do Americans Feel About The Flag?

A 2021 survey by YouGov found that 72% of Americans feel proud when they see the flag.

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Younger people surveyed under 35 were found to be only 56% proud when they see the flag.

Source: YouGov

Like The Flag, The Pledge Of Allegiance Is Also Under Attack In Schools

Sources: The Bradford, LA Times, NPR

TPUSA Students Just Like You Have Made A Difference

Johns Creek High School, like many schools, had stopped saying the Pledge of Allegiance each morning.

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This TPUSA Chapter pushed to bring it back and now say it each morning for the entire school since Fall 2023.

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You can create change just like this at your school!

The History Of The Pledge Of Allegiance

How Do Young People Feel About The Pledge Of Allegiance

In 2017, the New York Times interviewed multiple high school students about their feelings towards the pledge and national anthem which included these two point of views.

Trenton

Texas High School Student

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“I really choose to stand to show respect to everyone who is in service, who is on duty at the moment. They give so much and they get so little. The national anthem, the pledge, it’s all showing respect to people doing their duty overseas in order for us to have the freedom to protest.”

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Emma

New York High School Student

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“In 10th grade, I wouldn’t say it, but I would stand up. Now as my own silent protest, I sit during the Pledge of Allegiance. I have no connection to religion whatsoever. The fact that they added the “under God” part to the Pledge of Allegiance doesn’t represent me, and it doesn’t represent others who do not have religious affiliations.”

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Source: New York Times

Discussion Question

Do you see think the pledge of allegiance should be required in schools?

How To Get Flags In Your Classroom

Does your classroom not have an American flag in it?

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Take these steps to change that!

Step 1

Check your district’s and county’s school flag policy

Step 2

Reach out to your school board to see if there are any resources available for this!

Step 3

Ask your Field Rep for further help with this project

Step 4

Request a flag through TPUSA here.

Test Your Knowledge of The American Flag With This Matching Game