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New Hanover students urge loosening flag restrictions after district survey shows majority support
Summary
Student ambassadors reported survey results showing 79.6% support revising the district flag policy to allow a wider variety of flags; they recommended clearer rules prohibiting offensive symbols and a reporting process for problematic displays.
Student ambassadors from New Hanover County presented survey findings to the board Feb. 4 urging revision of Policy 7300 on flag displays.
The students said they collected more than 108 responses across the district’s four traditional high schools and some middle schools. Their presentation summarized the key findings: 79.6% of respondents believed flag restrictions should be revised to permit a larger variety of flags, and 72.6% said some flags currently displayed fall outside the approved list. The students recommended clearer, narrowly drawn standards that prohibit offensive language, political endorsements and symbols associated with hate groups and suggested a reporting system for flags deemed detrimental to the learning environment.
Board members thanked the students and asked for a copy of the survey. Miss Barnhart said the district communications team will work with students to share findings publicly.
The student presenters emphasized inclusivity and respect: while some respondents described flags as having no effect or a positive impact, a minority — roughly 27% — said flags could harm the learning environment. The ambassadors asked the board to refine policy language so school staff and students avoid confrontation while protecting free expression within defined limits.
Next steps: Students said they would share the underlying data with the board; board members requested the survey report for follow‑up.
