Oklahoma State School Superintendent Ryan Walters has responded to a controversial incident involving a high school student being told to remove an American flag from his truck by introducing new policies to promote patriotism in schools. The incident at Edmond North High School, where senior Caleb Horst was ordered to take down the flag, sparked public outrage and prompted Walters to take swift action.
Walters, who appeared on “Fox & Friends Weekend,” strongly condemned the school’s decision, referring to it as “anti-Americanism.” He announced that under the new state guidelines, no student will be punished for displaying the American flag, and schools will be required to encourage patriotic expression. “We’re not going to tolerate this anti-Americanism,” Walters asserted, outlining his plan to ensure that students are free to show their love for the country.
The original incident involved a school policy that prohibits flags on campus to avoid distractions and ensure safety. However, Walters argued that the policy was being misused and that students should be allowed to display the flag as a symbol of their patriotism. In response, he has mandated that all Oklahoma schools develop clear policies that support flag displays and report their adherence to these new guidelines.
Additionally, students will now be required to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at least once a week as part of a broader effort to promote patriotism in education. Walters’s actions reflect a commitment to countering what he described as the leftist influence in schools and ensuring that Oklahoma students can proudly display the American flag without fear of retribution.
