1. What do you think motivated Susan Russo to decline to participate in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance? Do you agree or disagree with what she did?

2. Mrs. Russo refused to lead her students in the Pledge of Allegiance, even though that was one of the responsibilities of homeroom teachers. Do you think it is proper for teachers to refuse to carry out their duties, even for conscientious and deeply-held convictions? Don’t our schools have a duty to instill in young people respect for our government?

3. Are there limits to a teacher’s First Amendment rights in the classroom? Suppose a teacher has strong political or even racist views; should she be permitted to express those views in the classroom?

4. Do you think that Mrs. Russo’s actions encouraged or discouraged discussion and debate?

5. Do you think there is any difference between Mrs. Russo’s actions and the actions of the athletes who have refused to stand for the National Anthem?