FREDERICK, Md. — A Nazi flag was pictured hanging in a classroom window at a public school in Frederick, Md. causing concern for community members, may have been a misunderstanding, school officials said.
People saw the flag while attending a basketball game at Governor Thomas Johnson High School in Frederick over the weekend, school officials confirm.
Frederick County Public Schools superintendent Theresa R. Alban said in a statement that the flag was used in a World War II history class and left visible to the outside.
"On the evening of Friday, February 7, during a men’s basketball game between Governor Thomas Johnson (GTJHS) and Frederick High Schools (FHS), the Nazi flag used in a World War II history class at GTJHS was left hanging near a window and was clearly visible to patrons entering the building. Once notified, FCPS staff immediately responded to the concern and removed the flag.
"At this time, we do not have the details leading to this incident; however, we share the community’s feelings regarding the hatred and intolerance this flag represents. Our staff will perform due diligence first thing Monday morning to identify the events leading to this unfortunate incident. We will take the appropriate steps to ensure an incident such as this is not repeated. The values of FCPS are in direct contrast to the message represented by that flag, and we apologize that the display of this flag caused hurt in our community."
Alban said officials will try to determine what led to the flag being hung there. Alban told news outlets the community has been notified and an apology has been sent.