I have a student in my classroom that refuses to stand during the pledge of allegiance. My principal told me that the superintendent sent a note directed to all teachers stating that all students must stand in respect for the flag. She will call the parents of these children. The student claims that his parents have talked to him about the first amendment of freedom of speech of the U.S. contitution. Now there are other students that refuse to stand. They say that they can be patriotic and still exercise their freedom of speech. Now, I feel confused...are these parents hippies that are giving me a hard time?