EDUCATION

Redlands school board to discuss flag ban, holiday observance policies

Proposed changes would restrict flags to U.S. and California flags and set guidelines for district holiday observances, events, and celebrations.

REDLANDS, Calif. — The Redlands Unified School District Board of Education will discuss proposed changes to its flag and holiday observance policies during its meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 14.

Why it matters: The proposed policy would limit the types of flags displayed on school grounds, including the rainbow pride flag, and could restrict commemorative celebrations or events deemed to "promote or advocate for political, social, or ideological movements."

Details of the proposal: The policy, known as Board Policy 6115, addresses guidelines for observed holidays, school-sponsored events and flag displays.

Flag displays: Only the U.S. and California flags would be permitted on school grounds, with exceptions for country, state, or U.S. military flags used for educational purposes within the curriculum. This restriction would extend to "posters, digital displays, flyers, and any other related displays."

Holidays and commemorative days: The policy aligns with California Education Codes 37220 and 37221, which define federal and state holidays for school closures and outline days for commemoration with educational activities.

• Examples include Susan B. Anthony Day (Feb. 15), Cesar Chavez Day (March 31), Native American Day (fourth Friday in September), and John Muir Day (April 21).
• The policy would maintain recognition of "broadly recognized national and cultural holidays," such as Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Black History Month.
• Interpretation of which commemorative days could be "perceived as divisive, controversial, or exclusive" would be left to the board.

Prohibited activities: The policy would prohibit employees, volunteers, and district-affiliated social media from promoting or recognizing "political or social agendas, activism, or ideological and highly controversial positions" while representing the district or participating in school events.

Read more about perspectives on the proposed policy and the arguments from both sides at the link below.

Redlands school board to discuss flag ban, holiday observance policies

Proposed changes would allow only U.S. and California flags and put guidelines in place over district holiday observances, events, and celebrations

Community Forward RedlandsStephanie Hastings Miranda

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