California Teacher Fired After Removing U.S. Flag, Promoting Pride Flag in Classroom
Kristin Pitzen, a teacher in California’s Newport Mesa School District, was dismissed after posting a TikTok video joking about removing the American flag from her classroom because it made her “uncomfortable.” She encouraged students to pledge allegiance to the pride flag instead, sparking backlash from parents upset by what they saw as disrespect toward the U.S. flag.
Pitzen also shared videos celebrating Pride Month and expressing support for LGBTQ+ students. The school board and community criticized her for promoting personal beliefs in class, leading to her termination.
