Catholice students told to stand for National Anthem

NEW YORK (FOX5NY) - Homecoming is less than a month away for students at Holy Trinity Diocesan High School. But if you take a knee during the National Anthem, you may face consequences.

This reminder coming from the Diocese of Rockville Centre.

A spokesperson for the diocese says the directive is a longstanding policy and is unrelated to and takes no position on the recent NFL controversy. It applies to all events at the three high schools run by the diocese - Hicksville, West Islip and Riverhead.

“It’s a private organization, private school, they can do what they want,” said one parent.

Attorney Brad Gerstman says the constitution isn't being violated.

“A Catholic school, for instance which is private, if they're not receiving any federal funding then they are permitted to say you cannot kneel," Gerstman said. “The First Amendment doesn't apply.”

As far as disciplinary action - the diocese says discipline is not always punitive and can take the form of a learning experience.