First grade teacher posts video of herself flipping US flag upside down, posting ‘Abolish ICE’ in class
A San Diego elementary school teacher is under investigation after a social media video showed her flipping an American flag upside down and posting an “Abolish ICE” sign in her classroom.
Bailey Hill Ringer, a first-grade teacher at Audubon Elementary School, posted the video on TikTok, which was later shared on X by “Libs of TikTok.” In the 22-second clip, the 27-year-old educator removes the flag from the wall and re-hangs it upside down while “The Hanging Tree” from The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 plays in the background. She then staples an “Abolish ICE” sign next to the inverted flag, a symbol often associated with distress.
The video, which has reportedly been deleted from TikTok, drew widespread criticism online. Many commenters demanded Ringer be fired, arguing that political messages should not be displayed in classrooms. “Fire her! Did she forget she teaches at a public school?” one user wrote on X. Another added, “No place for protest symbols around first graders.”
The San Diego Unified School District confirmed Tuesday that it is reviewing the video.
“The school and district are aware of the situation,” said district spokesperson James Canning. “It is being reviewed in accordance with district policies and procedures. Because this involves a personal matter, we’re unable to discuss specific details. Our priority is ensuring students remain safe, supported, and engaged in learning.”
The district’s social media policy notes that employees may face consequences for online behavior or speech that could disrupt school operations.
Ringer has not responded to requests for comment. Public reaction to the video has ranged from outrage over mixing politics with education to calls for changes in school policy, including some advocating for homeschooling or defunding the district.
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