Each school building, in accordance with law, shall display the United States flag each day that the building is open for students. The flag shall be flown outside of the building according to accepted display procedures. The display of the Michigan flag and/or a Grand Rapids Public Schools flag is optional. No other flags may be flown outside of District buildings or facilities.
Additionally, the District will permit the display of flags, posters, stickers, and similar tangible items in classrooms and offices that promote a safe and supportive environment to marginalized or underrepresented scholars, employees, contractors, or visitors.
The District, by permitting the display of flags and other tangible items in classrooms and offices that appropriately align with its overall values and beliefs, is not creating an open forum of free expression. Therefore, items that are contrary to the District’s values and beliefs are still prohibited from being displayed on District property.
The District supports display of the following flags or other items in classrooms and offices, as they articulate the District’s values and beliefs: flags supporting marginalized or underrepresented populations and which are likely to instill a sense of community among members of the broader District community. Questions or concerns about this policy or its implementation should be directed to the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources & General Counsel.
