As a public education institution of academic excellence and rational thinking, we must object to Radio Lowell’s calling for students “to stand for ‘The Pledge Of Allegiance’” and then blaring it out throughout the school each morning. Rationally speaking, it confuses our role as a public school. What is learned — or more importantly IGNORED — from this nationalistic salute?

We should all consider the historical fact that the original writer of “the Pledge” never intended to cite “God” as “on our side,” as if God cares about OUR country more than any other country. These are dangerous times, and the social and psychological consequences of this forced morning ritual make me very nervous.

It is for these reasons that, in a public school, I find Radio Lowell’s “pledge ritual” offensive and thoughtless. The fact that we are ordered “to stand” is offensive enough, but to stand for a public prayer is most offensive of all. I call for each and all of us as stakeholders to reflect on these matters. Do we stand for academic excellence and rational thinking? A call to blindly to stand for what is essentially a public prayer conflicts with our most fundamental philosophy of public education. I welcome rational public comment on this matter. Meanwhile, let’s cease this disturbing ritual until we have a period of institutional reflection.

— Patrick Fahey, math teacher

This letter first appeared in the Oct. 7, 2011 print edition of The Lowell.