After a disagreement with high school administrators about two sizable American flags displayed on his truck, a teen in Virginia decided to pursue homeschooling. A student at Staunton River High School named Christopher Hartless refuses to take down the flags because he feels that by doing so, he is expressing his First Amendment rights.
The row started when Hartless was ordered to take down the two American flags that were attached to the rear of his truck by school administrators. They said that other students were distracted by the flags. Hartless and Christina Kingery, his stepmother, are keeping their position, insisting that the flags are a representation of their family’s ties to the nation. In an interview with Virginia’s Fox 19, Hartless said, “My family fought for America, and I feel like I should be able to represent the flags that they fought for.”
Kingery expressed her unwavering support for her son’s decision, saying, “I told my son if this is what he’s believing in, then we are both going to stand behind him all the way.” Despite warnings from the school and the revocation of his 2023 parking pass, Hartless refused to remove the flags. Faced with the school’s strict policy and wanting to avoid having him ride the bus, the family made the difficult choice to switch to homeschooling.
The school’s representatives explained that their parking contract explicitly bans all flags and banners on vehicles due to safety concerns. They stated that such displays could obstruct the view of student drivers as they navigate the school parking lot. The rule has been in place for over a decade and is primarily focused on ensuring student safety.
While the American flag itself doesn’t violate the student code of conduct, the school board’s statement clarified that attire with offensive, discriminatory, or divisive language or images is prohibited. This includes symbols like Confederate flags, swastikas, and KKK references. However, attire with American flag logos or prints is not considered a violation.
Bedford County Public Schools emphasized that they proudly display the American flag throughout the school, and the Pledge of Allegiance is recited every morning. The district also hosts the National D-Day Memorial, with Bedford being chosen for its significant losses during the D-Day invasion in World War II.
Christopher Hartless’s decision to pursue homeschooling showcases the complex interplay between individual rights, school policies, and personal beliefs. As the flags controversy continues to raise questions about freedom of expression in educational settings, it prompts discussions about how schools balance safety concerns with protecting students’ constitutional rights.