While officials at Stuart Public Schools in Hughes County said they respect the rights of students and spectators to have political and social beliefs, they believe the playing of the national anthem isn't a time for protests.
Stuart Schools Superintendent Tracy Blasengame said a new district policy means students, athletes and spectators are expected to stand during the national anthem.
"We just teach our kids to be good citizens of the United States. It was just something that went out there. We've never had anybody not stand during the national anthem," Blasengame said.
He said the school board approved the new policy, a few weeks ago.
The district near McAlester has about 280 students. Blasengame said the school doesn't have a football team, but does have a popular basketball program.