Should I speak to my principal about how my teacher reacted when I chose not to stand for the pledge of allegiance?
I’m in high school, and recently I decided not to stand for the pledge because of my personal beliefs. I realize that some may not agree with my choice, but I feel it’s important to stand by my convictions. My teacher responded with a comment that went something like, “…and thank you to those who stood for the pledge; if you don’t, it really says a lot about your character. Let’s hope you don’t have to fight.” Throughout the day, I noticed her pointing at me while talking to other teachers. I think she may have interpreted my choice as disrespectful, which wasn’t my intention at all.
Am I overreacting? I just don’t feel right about a teacher treating me this way in her classroom. I know some might say I should just brush it off, but her comments really bothered me.
It sounds like you’re in a tough situation, and it’s completely valid to feel uncomfortable about how your teacher reacted. Your decision not to stand for the pledge is personal and rooted in your beliefs, and you have every right to express those beliefs.
If you feel comfortable, talking to your principal might be a good step. It’s important that you feel safe and respected in your learning environment. You could explain the situation and how her comments made you feel without getting into political discussions. It’s about ensuring that teachers foster an inclusive environment where students can express their beliefs without fear of judgment.
You’re not overreacting; feeling disrespected is understandable. Seeking support from school administration could help address the issue and improve the atmosphere for you and others. Just remember to approach the conversation calmly and focus on how the situation impacted you personally. Good luck!