Senior Ryan Bernal questioned the decision, saying, “Why can’t we chant USA? We’re all American. It doesn’t matter what your skin tone is or where you’re from.”

The school’s principal explained the concern in an email, saying, “We can communicate an unintended message” through the chant. However, the principal clarified the chant is welcome during appropriate moments like after the Pledge of Allegiance or the national anthem.

District officials emphasized that there is no ban on the chant, but they encourage empathy and kindness alongside patriotism.

Readers voiced strong opinions online, with one comment stating, “Shame on the leadership of that school… be thankful the students voiced their love for our country.”