Eh, I'm probably in the minority here, but the whole thing has always seemed kinda screwed up to me, even back when I was in school.
I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all
Firstly, pledging allegiance to anything should be a voluntary, informed act.
Secondly, there's the religious aspect.
Thirdly, there's a twisted irony in that children kinda have the least liberty of anyone.
I contend that any pledges of allegiance I made in public school are null and void, due to being made under coercion and without full consent.