I would notify parents of the students interests in playing in the upcoming parade. Students should be able to stand up for what they believe in and it is heartwarming to hear about students advocating and being inclusive. If a parent of a child really has a huge problem with it, maybe have them sit this one out and give them a special part in something else.

I believe schools should start teaching students about PRIDE month and what it is. I think you could give the opportunity to parents if they would allow their students to attend and if so, then you should definitely take them for the experience.

I think this is a great opportunity for students to support something that they believe in. However I do not think it is the teacher position to allow or not to participate in a parade. The school can extend the invitation if the school is participating, the parents are the ones deciding if their children are participating.

I wish schools would celebrate pride month, no one should be judge based on who they love and students need to learn to respect EVERYONE.

I think it is a great idea for the band to play at the PRIDE parade! As long as they receive parent permission and they are aware that it is happening, I think it would be an amazing experience for students!

Yes! You should allow them to play. If there are families or parents who don't approve, they don't have to go to the parade. This is 2021, if people still have a problem with other people's preferences, they have a choice not to attend things such as this.

You should allow the students to take a vote as to if they want to play in the parade. The students have to agree to respect the majority vote, it should be up to the students if they want to play or not.

I can empathize with this scenario because I, too, am from a small town. People who have never lived in a small town do not understand the implications of challenging religious views. Small towns are not closed-minded either (at least my town wasn't). When something nontraditional is implemented, there has to be time for the town's parents to warm-up. Slapping them in the face with a nontraditional event will cause a Sir Isaac Newton effect. Bands have parent meetings all the time. I would have a discussion and introduce this event to the parents. Speak from the point of education and inclusion so the parents that are blinded by perverse thoughts of homosexuality (small town thinkers). Here is where the rainbow truly shines, and minds are open. "Love thy neighbor," and it wouldn't hurt having the students in the back of the room like in Footloose. Have the Principal speak and give her perspective since the band will be representing the school. Have the Band director speak since parents have to chaperone passing out snacks and water. So... ultimately, you are including the parents in the parade. Once this is accomplished, you will hopefully obtain the support you are looking for.

If there is a risk for the students safety, then definitely don’t allow them to play. But if they want to play at the parade and they’re going to be 100% safe, then you should let them.

PRIDE is something that many students can take a lot of, well, pride in, and it is something that students should be given the vehicle to petition for. They should have their right to create a stance and see it through.

I would notify the parents of the parade and their interest in the band playing. If the parent just adamantly refuses to let their child participate then I would assign them an alternate assignment instead.

Yes! The students want to do a positive thing and advocate for others or themselves.

Yes! If you see any risks, you might want to think of an alternative, but if your town is having a parade it should be ok.

I think they should be given the opportunity to play at the PRIDE parade. This is definitely a decision based upon students and families but hopefully, enough will say yes so there is a turnout.

I would have the parents of the students sign a form for them to participate in the parade.

I think you should allow it. This will give the students an opportunity to stand up for what they believe in, despite negativity.