In California, a teacher’s decision to remove the American flag from her classroom has sparked significant public debate. Kristin Pitzen, a teacher at Newport Mesa School District in Orange County, shared a TikTok video where she explained that she removed the U.S. flag from her classroom because it made her feel “uncomfortable.” In the video, she humorously mentioned having packed the flag away but could not find it.
Freedom of Choice During the Pledge of Allegiance
Pitzen’s actions during the Pledge of Allegiance also attracted attention. She explained that, in her class, she allowed students the freedom to decide whether they wanted to stand and recite the pledge. This choice was framed as an opportunity for students to exercise their own personal beliefs, which Pitzen believed was an important freedom.
However, the situation took a different turn when a student, noticing the absence of the American flag, asked where they should look during the pledge. Pitzen jokingly suggested they could direct their attention to the pride flag in the room instead.
Public Backlash and Disapproval
Pitzen’s video and actions drew sharp criticism from many. Some commentators stressed that the American flag represents the freedoms that Americans enjoy today and that it is essential to teach students about the sacrifices made by those who have served the country. Others felt that disrespecting the flag was equivalent to disrespecting the country itself.
In another now-deleted video, Pitzen showed off her classroom decorated with multiple flags for Pride Month. She expressed her support for the LGBTQ+ community with a playful “I pledge allegiance to the queers” phrase. This further fueled the controversy, with many viewing the teacher’s actions as disrespectful toward the American flag.
Community and School Board Reactions
The reactions to Pitzen’s behavior came from multiple sides. The local community, as well as the school board, voiced their disapproval, labeling her actions as inappropriate and lacking respect for the American flag. Some parents took it upon themselves to plant American flags on the school grounds in an effort to reaffirm patriotic values. One parent, Michele Vaughn, whose son serves in the military, emphasized the importance of teaching students to respect the flag as a symbol of the nation’s freedoms.
The Broader Discussion on Identity, Expression, and Education
Since the incident in 2021, Pitzen has deleted all her social media profiles and is no longer teaching. The school district has yet to make a public statement regarding the matter, leaving many wondering what action, if any, will be taken.
This event has sparked broader conversations about freedom of speech, the role of national symbols, and the responsibilities of educators. How should teachers balance personal beliefs with professional responsibilities? These discussions raise important questions about how identity, freedom of expression, and education intersect in today’s classrooms. The debate continues to challenge the way we think about teaching, patriotism, and the role of educators in fostering inclusivity.
