Teacher ordered to remove classroom Christmas tree

BANGOR, Maine — A teacher in Maine has been told she must stop a 30-year tradition in her classroom, a display of a small Christmas tree.

Catherine Gordon, a math teacher at Bangor High School, said that she was told by the principal to take town the tree, WLBZ reported.

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There were no religious symbols, Gordon said. It was pink and featured Hello Kitty.

Gordon said the principal said the tree was inappropriate.

She went to Facebook to speak out against the removal order.

Bangor School Superintendent, Betsy Webb released a statement over the controversy, Bangor Daily News reported:

"In alignment with national and state standards, the Bangor School Department educates students about culture, traditions, and holidays through curriculum ties in English language arts, music, art, social studies, and world languages. Our focus is educating students to become global citizens with the necessary 21st century skills for college and career readiness for their future success. Maintaining consistency with this approach has not been an issue for the Bangor School Department, as faculty and staff are committed to what is the best interest of students and working towards our mission of academic excellence for all."

Gordon has received support to keep her tree.

U.S. Rep Bruce Poliquin, (R- Maine) criticized the school's move and called for officials to reconsider their decision, Bangor Daily News reported.

WPXI