MISSOULA- Big Sky High School administrators will not allow its students to display the Confederate flag while on school grounds.
Principal Natalie Jaeger made the decision after asking several students to remove articles of clothing or other items that displayed the flag.
Jaeger says that the display interrupts the learning environment for students and some have reported that it causes fear and anxiety while at school.
The display of the flags on school property will be dealt with by a staff member.
Jaeger is asking that if any displays are missed that they are reported to school officials immediately.
-Connor McCauley reporting for MTN
Full statement:
Dear Big Sky Families,
Over the past month I have asked several students to remove clothing or other items that display the Confederate flag. I have done this because our school and the larger school district have determined that the Confederate flag in any method of display or dress is disruptive to the education environment of our students. Students have reported that the display of the Confederate flag is offensive and disruptive to their educational environment and its display causes them to experience fear and anxiety at school.
In the next few days there will most likely be media coverage around my decision to enforce this stance and some of our students protesting these decisions. Every family and student at Big Sky has the right to agree or disagree with these decision, but I ask that every member of this community do so respectfully.
Please know that any display of the Confederate flag on our school property should be addressed by a staff member, but I have emailed your students to take time to report anything we miss to a teacher, counselor, administrator. We will continue to act immediately in each instance.
If you have questions or concerns don’t hesitate to call or email me or another administrator. I hope your family has a peaceful, safe and productive end of the school year.
All my best,
Natalie Jaeger
