In response to an incident where a high school student was told to remove an American flag from his truck, Oklahoma State School Superintendent Ryan Walters has announced new guidelines to promote patriotism in schools across the state. The decision follows public outcry after Edmond North High School senior Caleb Horst was ordered by school officials to take down the flag, leading Walters to step in and ensure such actions are not repeated.
Walters, appearing on “Fox & Friends Weekend,” condemned the school’s decision, labeling it as “anti-Americanism” and asserting that students should be encouraged to display their patriotism. “We’re not going to tolerate this anti-Americanism,” Walters stated, outlining plans for new state policies that would protect students’ rights to fly the American flag on school property.
The original incident involved a school policy at Edmond North High School that prohibits flags on campus for safety reasons. The district explained that the rule was in place to prevent distractions and potential hazards in the parking lot. However, Walters argued that the policy unfairly targeted patriotic displays and announced that all Oklahoma schools would be required to allow students to display the flag.
The new guidelines will also mandate that students recite the Pledge of Allegiance at least once a week, and schools will be required to report their compliance with these rules. Walters emphasized that Oklahoma schools will focus on fostering patriotism and countering what he described as the leftist influence in education.
Walters’s swift action reflects his commitment to ensuring that Oklahoma students can freely express their patriotism without fear of retribution.
