Tensions were high at the Redlands Unified School District board room as an army of residents came to show their support of — or strong opposition — to update the district’s flag and holiday recognition policies. On the evening of Tuesday, Jan. 14, several concerned students, parents and community members packed the district’s board room parking lot and chamber, waiting for a chance to participate in the evening’s discussion. Board members did not vote to approve or deny any policy, only discussing its possibility. While board members discussed the proposed policy amendments, the dialogue often became combative between them and public speakers.
Conversations among the board members also occasionally turned contentious.
Newly elected Trustee Area 5 board member Candy Olson submitted the policy for discussion. A staff report outlines the proposed amendments:…