Let students and teachers display their identities freely!

Recent signers:

The Issue

In the heart of Skokie, Illinois, our diverse community flourishes in schools like those in Skokie District 68, which represent a mosaic of vibrant cultures and backgrounds. However, a significant issue has arisen within our schools that threatens the inclusive atmosphere we have always treasured. Recently at Old Orchard Junior High (OOJH), a teacher was forced to remove a Palestinian flag from her classroom. This flag served as a symbol of her cultural identity and personal history. It was removed simply because its presence made someone uncomfortable.

The actions taken by the Skokie 68 School Board and the Superintendent were not isolated incidents. They are initiating a broader move to prevent similar displays of cultural identity, planning to remove flags and symbols that represent our diverse student and teacher populations. This decision directly impacts our community’s ability to express who they are and where they come from, stifling the very essence of what makes our schools vibrant and unique.

Our schools should be a place where everyone feels seen and valued, where the unique cultures of every student and teacher are celebrated, not hidden. The policies currently being considered do not merely remove flags, they erase the stories and legacies they carry. This act of silencing is not only detrimental to the morale of our community but also contradicts the principles of freedom and diversity that are foundational to the educational philosophy of our district.

Skokie school district 68 schools have always been known for embracing differences and fostering an inclusive environment where young minds can thrive. By allowing students and teachers to visibly represent their identities, we ensure that every child and educator feels welcomed and respected for who they are. It is essential for our educational leaders to consider the long-term impacts of diminishing cultural expression on school grounds.

Join us in urging the Skokie 68 School Board to reverse their decision and adopt policies that celebrate diversity by allowing the display of cultural flags and symbols in classrooms. It is not just a fight for the freedom to display a flag - it is a stand for cultural preservation, expression, and the undeniable right to celebrate one’s heritage safely and with pride.

Please sign this petition to show your support for keeping Skokie 68 schools a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.

Thank you for supporting our students and teachers ~ Carter Cleveland-Lax & Blake Sullivan

Blake SullivanPetition StarterStudent

Media inquiries

1,055

Recent signers:

The Issue

Blake SullivanPetition StarterStudent

Media inquiries

Support now

1,055

The Decision Makers

Skokie 68 School Board,

Skokie School District 68

Responded

“Board of Education Meeting | January 15, 2026 | Opening Statement Skokie School District 68 is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and safe learning environment for every student, family, and staff member, regardless of race, national origin, immigration status, religion, gender, or any other protected characteristic. This commitment was reaffirmed at the Board of Education meeting on November 20, 2025, when the Board adopted a proclamation affirming its dedication to belonging. The District is aware of both concerns and statements of advocacy raised by community members and staff regarding the display of a flag representing Palestine in a classroom at Old Orchard Junior High School.As with all matters of this nature, the District’s priority is to ensure that classroom environments remain age-appropriate, student-centered, inclusive, and aligned with Board of Education policies. The flag display resulted from a teacher-directed, community-building classroom activity conducted earlier in the school year. As part of an identity-focused project, students created and displayed small flags representing aspects of their identities. The teacher also posted a flag representing their own identity. As the activity has concluded and is no longer instructionally relevant, the teacher’s flag has been removed, and the student-created flags have been scheduled for removal. (No disciplinary action is associated with this matter). As educators, one way we communicate belonging and support is through the thoughtful design and use of classroom displays. As a public school district, classrooms are shared instructional spaces, and the materials displayed in them play an important role in supporting teaching, learning, and a sense of community. To provide clarity and support for staff, Skokie School District 68 is introducing a Committee for Guidance on Displays in the Learning Environment. This committee will develop clear, practical guidance to help ensure that classroom displays are age-appropriate, educationally meaningful, and aligned with the District’s commitment to serving all students. This Committee is not intended to censor nor suppress identity, but rather to foster inclusivity and provide guidance for staff as we continue to foster a community of belonging. The committee will be composed of teachers and administrators and will be led by the Educational Services Department. The group will work collaboratively this year, outside of the instructional day, to develop guidance that distinguishes among school-sponsored speech, personal expression, and student expression, while also promoting inclusive, welcoming, and visually effective learning environments. We appreciate the community and staff members who share their perspectives and look forward to continued collaboration as one learning community working together for our students. [This statement was presented at the January 15, 2026 Board of Education meeting and distributed via email/ParentSquare to parents/guardians, staﬀ, and available community contacts on January 16, 2026.]”

Skokie 68 School Board

Skokie School District 68

Responded

Skokie 68 School Board,

7 Members

Illinois