Marblehead students push back against proposed flag policy

By Lis Fonseca

A group of Marblehead High School students is opposing a draft policy that would limit the flags permitted on school property to only the American, Massachusetts, Marblehead, and POW-MIA flags. If enacted, this policy would prohibit the display of Pride, Black Lives Matter, and Juneteenth flags—symbols that many students say contribute to an inclusive school environment. 

During a meeting with the School Committee and Superintendent John Robidoux, students expressed concerns that the policy would stifle representation and inclusivity, according to a Marblehead Current report . They instead proposed an alternative that would allow student input in flag selection, ensuring the values of the student body are reflected. 

Marblehead High School student Maren Potter spoke to officials about her thoughts.

“What we are looking for is a policy that will give space for students to have a say in which flags are hung instead of just banning them all,” Potter argued. 

The student-backed counterproposal was developed with a legal review from GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders (GLAD) including input from parents, teachers, and community members, according to the Current. Supporters say it aligns with constitutional guidelines while protecting student representation and school values. 

School Committee Chair Jennifer Schaeffner referenced a 2022 Supreme Court decision, which ruled that Boston had violated the First Amendment by refusing to fly a religious flag at City Hall. She noted that any flag policy must be carefully crafted to prevent legal challenges while maintaining the school’s mission and values. 

Officials have not yet made a final decision but plan to host a community forum to discuss the policy further. No date for the forum has been announced.