From: Robert J. Henry, General Counsel

Date: June 27, 2002

Re: Pledge of Allegiance

By now you have all heard about the Federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal’s decision which concluded that the Pledge of Allegiance is unconstitutional because it includes the words “under God.”

It is important to note that this decision applies only to the “daily recitation bv students in the classroom” and has no application to school board meetings or other adult or community meetings which may take place on campus.

As to students in the classroom, the decision of the Ninth Circuit will not be effective until the time to seek reconsideration from the Ninth Circuit or appeal to the United States Supreme Court has expired. Thus, there is no need to abandon the use of the Pledge in summer school classes.

Please let us know if you have any questions.

RJH:tw