Four Little Words are Causing Huge Backlash at South Portland High [POLL]

South Portland high school senior class president Lily SanGiovanni has started a huge controversy quite innocently. She changed the way she invited students and faculty members to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

In an effort to make it clear that reciting the pledge is optional under state and federal law, she now makes the announcement over the intercom:

"At this time, would you please rise and join me for the Pledge of Allegiance if you'd like to." 

Lily says it's about the reference to 'under God' that can make some uncomfortable in a public school. She says it has nothing to do with patriotism. But it has caused complaints from the community including a Facebook post by local businessman Rob Soucy from Port Harbor:

"So much for the All American city. Standing for the Pledge of Allegiance is OPTIONAL for students at South Portland High School. So, let me get this straight, we just spent $47 million of taxpayer money on a Taj Mahal school renovation and the kids (of families that probably don't have to pay taxes to begin with) can't be forced to stand for 30 freaking seconds to honor the symbol of the country they live in and off! Are you kidding me?"

Lily is stunned by the reaction and has since stopped saying those 4 little words in the announcement of the plege.

What is your opinion?