Suspended Fayetteville teacher backs off planned protest
FAYETTEVILLE (WTVD) -- The Fayetteville high school teacher at the center of a free-speech controversy involving the American flag is now backing off a plan to protest.
Lee Francis posted on social media that after consulting with legal counsel and the Fayetteville Police Department, he decided a public demonstration would not be a good idea.
Francis was suspended for 10 days without pay for stepping on a U.S. flag during a class at Massey Hill Classical High School.
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Lee said he was simply teaching a lesson in free speech, but his method angered many students and parents.
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"I have the utmost respect for our men and women in the military," Francis told ABC11 last week. "I have the utmost respect for the symbols that makes this country great. I also have respect for the laws and rights and privileges that people need to know they have."
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Cumberland County Schools Superintendent Dr. Frank Till said in a statement Friday that Francis would face disciplinary action.
