“After high school students began chanting ‘USA’ at sporting events, school officials sent a letter to parents urging them to discourage the chants, citing concerns over potential disruption.”

Note: This story originally made headlines in September 2017 and is being republished due to renewed interest.

A California high school sparked debate after students were asked to stop chanting “USA” at sporting events and rallies—a tradition many saw as a show of patriotism.

At Vista Del Lago High School in Folsom, students had frequently chanted “USA” to express school spirit and national pride. However, school officials raised concerns that the chant could be perceived as exclusionary or insensitive in certain contexts, prompting a request for students to refrain from using it during events.