School ban on Santa, Thanksgiving and Pledge of Allegiance overturned

NEW YORK (FOX5NY) - Santa Claus can finally come to town at a Sunset Park, Brooklyn school.

PS 169's principal Eujin Jaela Kim had banned Santa and anything related to Christmas but the school district has overturned her.

Mimi Ferrer's daughter is a second grader at the school and she's also the president of the PTA.  She says since Kim became the principal a year and a half ago, the children weren't saying the Pledge of Allegiance anymore either.

Parents and students say the school didn't celebrate any holidays.  The Thanksgiving celebration was called "the harvest festival."  Christmas and Hanukah -- the "winter show"

Before the new principal came along, Santa made annual appearances at the school.  Often playing the part of Santa was Assemblyman Felix Ortiz

According to the Department of Education, Santa is considered a secular figure so he is is allowed to be at public schools.

Other holiday symbols such as Christmas trees, Hanukkah menorahs, and the Islamic star and crescent are also permitted.

Although this is a diverse community, many say Santa is an American icon loved by all, usually.

Fox 5 News tried contacting the principal but were directed to the Department of Education.

In a statement it said, in part, that it works to celebrate the diverse values and traditions of all New Yorkers.

Opponents have started an online petition to remove Kim as principal.