See You at the Pole
See You at the Pole is a Christian prayer event held annually on the fourth Wednesday of September at both public and private schools.
"See You at the Pole™ is a student-initiated, student organized, and student-led event. That means this is all about students meeting at their school flagpole to pray—for their school, friends teachers, government, and their nation. See You at the Pole™ is not a demonstration, political rally, nor a stand for or against anything."[1]
The event involves gathering around the school's flagpole before school begins for a time of prayer and solidarity. The event is primarily among Christian school children, but any other individuals (such as teachers or parents) may join.
Despite the usual blocking of religion found in atheistic public schools, See You at the Pole is permitted for several reasons. The Supreme Court's ruling in Abington Township School District v. Schempp prohibits school-sponsored prayer, but See You at the Pole is run and organized by students. In addition, the event takes place outside the school, the event is held before school begins (meaning it does not interfere with time devoted to education), and it has no financial cost for the school district (meaning that liberals cannot argue that tax money is being used to establish religion). Participation in See You at the Pole is a right guaranteed to students and protected by the constitution.[2]
In 2010, the event will take place on September 22. The suggested verses are Matthew 6:9-13, and the theme is "Reveal."[3]
