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Board discusses new state flags-and-banners law; questions raised about electronic displays, parking‑lot signs and 'hostile nation' definition
Summary
On first reading, district leaders reviewed a newly enacted Idaho law regulating flags, banners and electronic displays in schools; board members asked how the law defines nations 'engaged in hostile action' and whether administrators should pre‑approve electronic displays.
The Lake Pend Oreille School District Board on Sept. 9 held a first reading of a new state law that places limits on flags, banners and other political displays on school property and specifies four narrow exceptions for electronic displays.
Superintendent Bechnermeyer and staff presented a succinct draft procedure intended to reflect the statute and make requirements clearer for patrons and staff. The law speaker noted was enacted this year; the superintendent said the district’s draft policy condenses the model template from the state attorney general and is intended to be accessible to parents and staff.
Board discussion focused on points of interpretation. Vice Chair Sherman asked how the law defines a "nation that is engaged in hostile action" and where the district would look for an official list. Superintendent Bechnermeyer said the district would not make that determination and that the legislature or state authorities would typically publish such designations; she offered to research how a list or declaration would be published.
Trustees also questioned how the law treats electronic displays and whether school administrators should pre‑approve messages on electronic reader boards and kiosks. Staff replied that the statute expressly lists four exceptions where the law’s restrictions do not apply (for example, certain school‑sanctioned displays and official student organization messaging). The superintendent noted the state attorney general had issued an opinion about related classroom displays and that some districts had begun compliance activity in August.
Board members agreed the district should take additional time to refine language before a second reading, including a possible clause that requires administrative approval for school electronic displays to reduce confusion.
Ending: This was a first reading; staff will follow up with legal and operational clarifications and return with revised language for a second reading.
