A photo of a Northeastern High School cheerleader stirred up social media over the weekend.
The high school student made a decision that she would take a knee during the National Anthem. The trend began earlier this year when Colin Kaepernick, at the beginning of the NFL season, took a knee during “The Star-Spangled Banner.” He said it was in protest of what he considers unfair police treatment toward African-Americans.
Northeastern School District released a statement today of their viewpoint regarding the student’s decision.
“The Northeastern School District is aware of the photo depicting one of our cheerleaders kneeling during the National Anthem at a recent basketball game. As a public school district, student expression is governed by district policy, the Pennsylvania School Code, and State Board of Education regulations. As such, the district recognizes each student’s right to express him/herself, provided that such expression complies with policy and state and federal regulations. We reserve the right to monitor expression or conduct that interferes with the educational process, threatens serious harm, encourages unlawful activity, or interferes with the rights of others. As a district, we continue to encourage all students to be respectful of our country and community and to conduct themselves appropriately and in a civil fashion during the school day and at all school related events. We also understand that choosing to stand, sit or kneel during the playing of the National Anthem is a personal and individual choice protected by the First Amendment. While many in our community have voiced both concern and agreement over this issue, the district remains committed to providing a focused and safe learning environment for all students, while continuing an open dialogue with all stakeholders.”
