A teacher received attention online after sharing a video in which she explained that she removed the American flag from her classroom because it made her feel “uncomfortable.” She later told students.
To face a different flag during the daily Pledge of Allegiance, prompting an investigation by school officials. In a now-viral social media video, a California educator was seen speaking about.
Her classroom environment and sharing personal views that sparked widespread debate. The teacher, identified as Kristin Pitzen of the Newport Mesa School District,
Appeared on video expressing her discomfort with the American flag and revealing that she had replaced it with another symbol that reflects her personal beliefs.
With the growing influence of social media and technology, parents and the public are gaining more insight into what is being shared and discussed in classrooms.
Concerns have arisen from some parents and observers who believe personal or political views are increasingly being introduced into public education at the expense of academic focus.
In the video, shared on the “Libs of TikTok” Twitter account and reported by The Blaze, Pitzen discussed her morning classroom routine, which includes the Pledge of Allegiance. She stated that.
She removed the American flag from the room because it made her feel uncomfortable and stored it somewhere she could no longer recall. When a student asked where to direct their attention during.
The pledge, Pitzen explained that she gestured toward an LGBTQ+ pride flag displayed on the wall. Following the video’s circulation, the Orange County school district confirmed.
To Fox News that the teacher was placed under investigation. However, school officials declined to provide additional details about any disciplinary action or outcomes.
This wasn’t the first time the teacher had shared her views online. In a separate video, she showed support for Pride Month, wearing rainbow-themed clothing and accessories.
She also gave a tour of her classroom, highlighting decorations that included various LGBTQ+ pride flags, such as those representing pansexual, genderqueer, bisexual, and transgender communities.
According to The Blaze, the videos appeared to originate from a TikTok account under the username “mrsgillingsworth.”
The profile’s bio described the user as “Your Favorite English Teacher” and listed pronouns as “She/They,” along with a reference to sexual orientation.
While the school district investigates, some have raised questions about the role of personal beliefs in the classroom. Critics argue that teachers should maintain a neutral and inclusive environment.
That prioritizes education over personal advocacy. Others believe educators should be allowed to express their identities while maintaining professional boundaries.
Pitzen’s case has become a flashpoint in a broader national conversation about classroom content, freedom of expression, and parental involvement in education.
Supporters of the teacher argue that inclusive classrooms help all students feel seen and respected, while critics fear that educational spaces are being used to promote ideological viewpoints.
Regardless of opinion, the discussion underscores the importance of transparency, parental engagement, and clear professional guidelines for educators.
As debates continue across the country, school districts are being urged to navigate these issues thoughtfully, ensuring classrooms remain respectful, inclusive, and academically focused.