“The Lynden School Board believes that it is important for students to have conversations around difficult topics, especially with people of differing views.”
The Lynden School District Board of Directors will consider a resolution this week that would set aside the first Monday before September 10 each year as “Charles James Kirk Day.”
Resolution #13-25, titled 'Opposition to Political Violence and Institution of Charles James Kirk Day and Support for Student Debate Clubs,' affirms the district’s commitment to promoting respectful dialogue, civic engagement, and safe learning environments.
“The Lynden School Board believes that it is important for students to have conversations around difficult topics, especially with people of differing views,” the resolution states.
It emphasizes that respectful dialogue is “a cornerstone of a healthy democratic society” and highlights the role schools play in preparing students with critical thinking, active listening, and evidence-based reasoning skills.
Under the measure, the Monday immediately preceding September 10 will be formally designated as Charles James Kirk Day. On that day, the district will “stand in opposition to political violence of any kind,” with the recommendation that observances be led by students where possible.
The resolution also reaffirms support for student debate clubs, noting that participation “provides students with opportunities to explore diverse perspectives, construct logical arguments, and collaborate with peers in a structured and respectful environment.” The board encourages school leaders, educators, and community partners to expand access to debate opportunities for all interested students.
“Violence of any kind is harmful to society,” the resolution declares, adding that “political violence designed to silence voices is particularly harmful”.
The move stands in stark contrast to the Kent School District (KSD), which confirmed it intentionally chose not to follow federal and state directives to lower flags to half-staff in Kirk’s honor. Kirk, the conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated last week during a speaking event in Utah.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump ordered flags nationwide to be lowered, and Washington Governor Bob Ferguson announced that the state would comply, while also extending his proclamation to honor Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman, her late husband Mark, and “all victims of political violence.”
KSD instead instructed schools to return flags to full staff on Friday, issuing a statement that Kirk “has made public statements that conflict with the values of inclusivity, respect, and student safety that we as a District strive to uphold.”
“Kent School District (KSD) is committed to upholding our core values of equity, excellence, and community,” the district’s statement read. “On September 11, KSD’s flags were lowered to half-staff in solemn remembrance of the lives lost and the courage shown on that day, a tradition we honor with deep respect.”
The district added that Washington law requires schools to display the US flag during school hours, but does not obligate them to follow proclamations from other entities. “When a person has made public statements that conflict with the values of inclusivity, respect, and student safety that we as a District strive to uphold, we may choose not to fly the flag at half-staff,” the statement continued. “Our decision reflects both our compliance with Washington State law and our unwavering commitment to ethical leadership and educational equity.”
The Lynden board is scheduled to deliberate and vote on Resolution #13-25 at its September 18 meeting.
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