In 2021, a teacher at Newport Mesa School District in Orange County, California, found herself at the center of a heated debate after removing the American flag from her classroom. Kristin Pitzen, in a now-deleted TikTok video, shared that she took down the flag because it made her “uncomfortable.” With a lighthearted giggle, she whispered to the camera, “I packed it away, and I don’t even know where it is—I haven’t found it yet.”
Pitzen went on to describe how she handles the daily Pledge of Allegiance, a tradition meant to honor loyalty to the United States. “I tell my students, ‘Stand if you want, don’t stand if you don’t. Say the words if you feel like it, or don’t.’ My class decided to stand but not say the words, and that’s totally fine,” she explained.
But when a student asked what to look at during the pledge—since the American flag was no longer displayed—Pitzen pointed to a pride flag hanging on the classroom wall. “You can pledge your allegiance to that one,” she said, laughing.
Pushing a Personal Perspective
This wasn’t the only instance where Pitzen brought her personal views into the classroom. In another deleted TikTok video, she showcased her classroom decked out for Pride Month, adorned with various pride flags. “I pledge allegiance to the queers,” she declared, adding, “I love you all so much—whether you’re out or not. You’re enough, you’re appreciated, and I’ve got your back.”
Community Pushback
The videos quickly went viral, sparking outrage among parents, community members, and online audiences who felt Pitzen’s actions disrespected a cherished national symbol. The American flag, for many, represents the sacrifices made for the freedoms enjoyed today.
In response, parents took action, planting American flags on the school’s lawn as a show of patriotism. Michele Vaughn, a parent with a son in the military, explained, “We heard the school was short on flags, so we decided to help out and show our pride in our country.” She added a personal note, saying she wished Pitzen understood the importance of respecting the flag.
Online, the reaction was equally strong. One commenter wrote, “The flag is more than just cloth—it’s a symbol of the people who fought for the freedom you have today.” Another questioned, “How can you dismiss the flag that represents the country that gives you these rights?” A third suggested, with biting sarcasm, “Maybe she’d prefer living somewhere like Afghanistan.”
A Broader Conversation
The incident ignited a broader debate about freedom of expression, the role of national symbols in schools, and how educators balance inclusivity with respect for tradition.
Pitzen, who has since deleted her social media accounts, is no longer teaching in the classroom, and the Newport Mesa School District has stated that an investigation is ongoing. It remains unclear what further steps, if any, the district will take.
What’s Your Take?
This story raises tough questions about the role of teachers in shaping young minds, the meaning of national symbols, and how schools can foster both unity and diversity. What do you think about Pitzen’s actions and the community’s response? Share your thoughts below, and pass this story along to hear what others have to say!