Kristin Pitzen, a teacher in the Newport Mesa Unified School District in Orange County, California, has become the subject of national conversation after posting a series of TikTok videos that drew both support and criticism for how patriotism and inclusivity are expressed in the classroom.In one now-deleted video, Pitzen explained that she had removed the U.S. flag from her classroom because it made her feel “uncomfortable.” During the Pledge of Allegiance, she told students they could choose whether to stand, and when one asked what to face without a flag, she humorously pointed to a rainbow flag displayed in the room.In another video, she expressed support for LGBTQ+ students with a lighthearted remark that some viewers found controversial. Her classroom was decorated with pride-themed items, which she said was an effort to make all students feel welcomed and included.However, her posts quickly went viral and sparked significant public reaction. Many critics felt that removing the national flag and replacing it with a personal statement crossed professional lines, particularly in a public school setting. Parents placed American flags around the school in response, and some expressed concern that classroom spaces should reflect shared civic values.One parent, whose child is serving in the military, said in a local interview, “The flag stands for the freedoms we all enjoy. I believe children should be taught to respect that.”In response to the public outcry, Pitzen deactivated her social media accounts and the school district removed her from classroom duties pending an internal review. The district also released a statement reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity while stressing the importance of maintaining a respectful and politically neutral learning environment.The incident has since become part of a broader national conversation about free expression, professionalism in education, and the role of social media. Supporters of Pitzen say she was trying to affirm and support students who may often feel marginalized. Others argue that while teachers have rights to personal expression, there are limits when it intersects with their professional role.Legal experts note that public employees, including educators, are protected by the First Amendment, but those rights can be limited in the context of their official duties. “The challenge is finding a balance between personal expression and professional responsibility,” one legal analyst noted.As the district’s investigation continues, the discussion around this case highlights the ongoing complexities faced by educators in a diverse and increasingly connected world. It raises important questions about how schools can support all students while respecting a broad range of community values.