Kristin Pitzen, a teacher in Orange County’s Newport Mesa School District, recently sparked significant controversy after a TikTok video went viral in which she explained why she removed the American flag from her classroom. In the now-deleted video, Pitzen shared that she took down the flag because it “made her uncomfortable.” She laughed as she admitted to packing it away and claimed she hadn’t yet “found it.” The lighthearted tone and seemingly casual attitude toward such a significant national symbol quickly caught the attention of many, leading to a backlash from parents and others who felt the gesture was disrespectful to the American flag.
Pitzen’s comments did not stop there. She also revealed that during the Pledge of Allegiance in her classroom, she encourages her students to make their own choices about participation. “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 said, describing how she lets her students decide whether or not to engage with the Pledge, which is typically considered a patriotic ritual in American schools. Pitzen’s approach has been framed by some as a stance on freedom of choice, but it was seen by many as an undermining of the flag’s significance and national values.
The reaction from parents, especially in a region with a strong sense of patriotism, was swift and fierce. Critics argued that Pitzen’s behavior was an attempt to instill disrespect for the American flag and its symbolism. Many felt that her actions were unprofessional and contrary to the expectations of educators to teach respect for the country and its symbols, including the flag, which many consider a symbol of unity and sacrifice. Some parents expressed concern that such actions might influence young minds to question their loyalty to the nation.
Adding to the controversy, Pitzen claimed she had replaced the American flag with a Pride flag in her classroom, encouraging students to pledge their allegiance to it instead. This shift was seen by many as a provocative political statement. Supporters of the Pride flag viewed it as a positive symbol of inclusivity and representation, but critics argued that it was inappropriate to place it in a classroom where the national flag traditionally reigns as a symbol of unity and patriotism.
The debate over Pitzen’s actions has ignited a larger conversation about the role of educators in shaping students’ views on national symbols, patriotism, and political identity. Should teachers encourage students to question authority and tradition, or should they uphold these values without challenge? While some defended Pitzen’s right to express her views and allow students to make their own choices, others saw it as an example of the increasing politicization of education.
In the end, the incident highlights the delicate balance teachers must strike between fostering critical thinking and maintaining respect for the symbols that represent national unity. It also serves as a reminder of the power and responsibility educators hold in shaping the values and beliefs of future generations. Whether or not one agrees with Pitzen’s actions, the conversation about how schools should engage with patriotism and identity is likely to continue.
