Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters has issued new guidance after a public school sought to ban a student from flying an American flag on his car.
Edmond North High School previously cited a “long-standing practice” banning all flags including the Star Spangled Banner following criticism over the ban at the end of August.
The heightened criticism on social media prompted Republican Superintendent Walters to intervene and issue new guidance on patriotic displays at public schools.
“No school in Oklahoma should tell students they can’t wave an American flag,” Walters said in a statement on X. “Americans have fought and died for the right to carry our flag, and no student should ever be targeted for exercising that right. Our young people should never have to fear displaying their patriotism and I will fight every day so that when our students want to express their love for America, they can do so boldly and proudly.”
Under the new guidelines, each school district must establish a policy which ensures the flag of America can be flown “without infringement.” All schools must also recite the Pledge of Allegiance at least once a week in accordance with state law, while all districts are required to submit reports detailing their policies in line with the new guidance.
Many had high praise for Superintendent Walters’ intervention.
Walters himself also responded the widespread publication of his statement.
