STUART, Okla. (AP) — A small Oklahoma school district has adopted a policy saying students, athletes and spectators are "expected" to stand during the national anthem with no "gestures of demonstration or protest."
The policy adopted by the school board says it isn't intended to force anyone to violate their religious, political or social beliefs. It asks that all stand out of respect to those who have died for the country.
The policy says students who violate the policy would be disciplined on a case-by-case basis. Potential action against spectators is not addressed.
School Superintendent Tracy Blasengame told the McAlester News-Capital the policy is intentionally vague so the district doesn't paint itself into a corner.
The district with about 280 students is about 90 miles southeast of Oklahoma City.