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Two public speakers urge different approaches to classroom flag display; board refers topic for consideration
Summary
At public comment, two residents — one requesting a formal district flag‑etiquette policy requiring the U.S. flag to be the largest in classrooms, the other urging celebration of diverse flags while supporting U.S. flag prominence — urged action. A board member asked that the HR policy committee consider the topic.
Two community members urged the CUSD 200 Board of Education Wednesday to address classroom flag display, presenting opposing emphases on school policy and unity.
Michael Lafayto told the board he found a small U.S. flag mounted in a classroom at Wheaton Warrenville South and said the district lacks a clear policy on flag size or placement. “I’m asking the district adopt a policy ensuring the American flag is always placed in a position of honor in every classroom,” Lafayto said, adding he supplied printed guidance from the American Legion and other references.
Tom Aiello, a U.S. Army veteran and 27‑year Wheaton resident, said he supports the presence of different flags in classrooms but urged the American flag be the most prominent symbol in each room. “Making the American flag the largest and most prominent flag in a classroom isn’t about politics. It’s about unity,” Aiello said.
Board members did not debate or vote on a policy Wednesday. Board member Robert (Rob) [last name not specified in transcript] asked that the topic be referred to the Human Resources policy committee for review at a future meeting.
The board’s public‑comment procedures were read before speakers; the superintendent noted that matters concerning personnel or students should be communicated privately to the board to maintain confidentiality.
No existing district policy on classroom flag dimensions or placement was cited in the public record; the board directed staff to place the matter on the HR policy committee’s docket for consideration and potential policy development.
