Redlands Unified to discuss revised flag policy that adds exceptions, narrows scope

REDLANDS, Calif. — A revised draft of Redlands Unified School District’s flag and observance policy is set to go before the school board Tuesday, April 22. The revised version removes broad language about ideological messaging and adds exceptions allowing certain flag displays in indoor spaces.

Why it matters: The original January draft of Board Policy 6115 drew criticism from students, parents and educators who said the policy could prohibit pride flags, limit cultural celebrations and restrict classroom expression.

What’s new in the April draft: The revised version further clarifies that only the U.S. or California state flags may be flown on school grounds or in classrooms. The earlier draft specified only “school grounds.” This limitation also applies to flags on posters, digital displays or flyers.

As in the original version, exceptions are allowed for county, state or U.S. military flags used for educational purposes within the adopted curriculum.

According to the proposed policy "any other flag must be approved by the Superintendent prior to displaying if, and only if, it is used for educational purposes and only during the related educational period."

In addition to the exceptions in the original draft – flags related to school championships and academic achievement – the new draft adds two exceptions:

• College and university flags
• Displays during student club meetings and events

The policy states that "student clubs may display materials (e.g., flags, fliers, banners) representing their club during club meetings and events."

Edits to events and celebrations: The revised draft also retains a section titled "Focus on Academics," stating that "school-sponsored events and activities must align with the district's educational goals" without endorsing a political, social or religious beliefs. Also retained is a mandate that district employees (while acting in their official capacity), volunteers and district social media platforms should not promote or recognize activities that “center on the advocacy of political or social agendas, activism, or ideological or controversial positions.”

What was removed: However, references to the policy as a guide to school-sponsored events and celebrations was removed.

The original draft also included broad language suggesting the policy was intended to shield students from certain messages or observances. The following lines were struck through in the revised version:

“The Board believes this policy serves to protect children from exposure to ideological and politically divisive observances that are not aligned with the educational mission of the district.”

“To ensure that all students, staff and families feel welcome in our schools, the district staff will follow board policy 6144 with respect to celebrating or commemorating any events that may be perceived as divisive, controversial or exclusive.”

This language framed the policy as a protective measure against ideological influence or divisiveness.

The policy continues to list state-designated holidays consistent with California Education Code sections 37220.

Next steps: The Redlands Unified Board of Education will review and discuss the revised draft at its regular meeting Tuesday. No vote is scheduled at this time.

School Board Meeting Information

Click here to view agenda.

6:00 PM
Board Room, 25 West Lugonia Avenue, Redlands, CA
Open/Closed Session: 4:00 p.m., District Office Conference Room 
Open Session: 6:00 p.m.  

The meeting will also be live-streamed here:

https://redlandsusd.primegov.com/public/portal

Public comments will only be accepted in person at the meeting.