HS teacher who stepped on US flag faces 10 days unpaid leave

FAYETTEVILLE, NC -- A North Carolina school superintendent is recommending a 10-day suspension without pay for a high school teacher who stepped on the American flag in class to make a point about the First Amendment.

The Fayetteville Observer reports that Lee Francis, a history teacher at Massey Hill Classical High, received a letter Friday informing him of the recommended punishment.

Cumberland County Superintendent Frank Till says stepping on the U.S. flag is "inappropriate in our schools" and violates policy.

Francis has 15 days to request a school board hearing. He says he's disappointed the district is "kowtowing" to society.

Francis says his point Monday was to show students the meaning of a 1989 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that found flag desecration is protected speech.