"Pledge Across America"

Commissioner David P.Driscoll has been asked by Under Secretary of Education, Eugene W. Hickok, to post this announcement. "Dear Principals, Teachers, and School Staff: On behalf of Secretary Paige and the U.S. Department of Education, I am writing to ask you to join schools across the nation on September 17, 2002 (Constitution Day) as we show our support for our country, our men and women in the armed forces, and our communities, by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance together (http://www.ed.gov/PressReleases/09-2002/09092002.html). Last year, Secretary Paige and President Bush both participated in the Pledge Across America with tens of thousands of children all across our nation, and we enthusiastically invite you to join Secretary Paige and the Department of Education again this year in what promises to be an even larger effort. On Tuesday, September 17th, 2002, the synchronized "Pledge Across America" will begin at: 2 p.m. EDT; 1 p.m. CDT; noon MDT; 11 a.m. PDT, 10 a.m. in Alaska; and 8 a.m. in Hawaii. "Pledge Across America" is organized by Celebration USA, a non-profit organization created to strengthen instruction on the basic principles of American democracy in our classrooms. This is an opportunity to join in a nation-wide effort to show Patriotism and to send a message loud and clear in support of the freedoms we enjoy as a nation. I look forward to standing with you. I also would like to encourage you, as a fellow educator, to take advantage of the educational resources available at www.celebrationusa.org/. This site contains curriculum and materials to foster critical thinking and active participation, as students learn about the creation of our great Nation and principles of Democracy. Thank you for your tireless efforts on behalf of children. As the new school year begins, and we observe the anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, our nation owes each and every one of you a huge debt of gratitude for the instruction and encouragement you provide to children in America. Please stand united with school, community, and country as we say the Pledge on September 17. Best wishes for a productive and wonderful school year! Sincerely, Eugene W. Hickok
Under Secretary of Education"



Last Updated: September 12, 2002



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