Kristin Pitzen, a teacher in California’s Newport Mesa School District, caused national controversy in 2021 after posting a TikTok video joking about removing the American flag from her classroom because it made her feel “uncomfortable.” Instead, she told students to pledge allegiance to the pride flag, which she had displayed.

In another video, she quipped, “I pledge allegiance to the queers,” showing off her pride-themed classroom. While some praised her for supporting LGBTQ+ students, many parents and community members accused her of disrespecting the U.S. flag and promoting a personal agenda.

In response, parents placed American flags around the school, with one parent noting the disrespect felt especially personal as their son served in the military. The school district launched an investigation, and Pitzen deleted her social media accounts. She is no longer teaching at the school.

The incident sparked nationwide debate over classroom decorum, patriotism, and how educators express personal beliefs in public schools.