When the intercom at South Portland High School is turned on Thursday Morning students will hear the message, "I now invite you to rise and join me for the Pledge of Allegiance.”

The message is part of the new Pledge Of Allegiance procedure that was overwhelmingly approved by the school's faculty.

The procedure stipulates that all staff and students remain quiet and respectful while the pledge is being recited.

It also says staff members cannot force students to recite the pledge if they're opposed to it.

The school resumed reciting the Pledge of Allegiance following the Sept. 11 terror attacks, and up to this point, the school hasn't had a written procedure for reciting the pledge.

Participation in the pledge is optional under Maine law.

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