Newberg schools’ ban on certain symbols violates Oregon Constitution, Yamhill Circuit Court rules...

The Yamhill County Circuit Court has made a decision in a case filed last year by a Newberg teacher against the school district and four members of the school board. The judge ruled Thursday that a policy banning certain symbols displayed in schools is unconstitutional.

The case, filed by the ACLU of Oregon on behalf of Newberg school employee Chelsea Shotts in December 2021, challenges a policy approved by the school board last year. The policy bans employees from displaying “controversial” or “political” signs or symbols. The initial board conversations about the policy centered around banning Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ+ Pride flags.

A sign depicting a rainbow flag with a heart superimposed, along with the words “Be Known,” in Shotts’ classroom window at Dundee Elementary was the subject of the first complaint under the policy. At the time the complaint was filed, Shotts said both she, as a queer staff member, and students should be safe and supported.

“I will do everything in my power to create an environment that makes all students feel safe and supported so they can learn and thrive,” Shotts said. “I wish the entire board would join us in these efforts.”