Controversy Surrounds Teacher’s Removal of American Flag

Kristin Pitzen, a teacher in the Newport Mesa School District, sparked outrage after she posted a TikTok video explaining why she took down the American flag from her classroom. She stated the flag made her feel “uncomfortable” and shared that she didn’t know where it was stored.

Teacher’s Explanation and Response to Backlash

In the video, Pitzen laughed as she explained to her followers, “I packed it away and I don’t know where, and I haven’t found it yet.” The removal led to an outcry from many parents who expressed concern about their children being taught to “disrespect” the American flag.

Classroom Rituals Raise Further Questions

Pitzen also shared her approach to the Pledge of Allegiance, suggesting that students could choose whether or not to participate. “Stand if you feel like it, don’t stand if you feel like it, say the words if you want, you don’t have to say the words,” she told her class. This dismissal of the national ritual heightened the debate surrounding the teacher’s actions.