Posted on 05/26/25
| News Source: FOX45
Towson, MD. May 26, 2025 — It’s a story that grabbed national attention - a Maryland student, and prospective U.S. Marine, suspended while asking why classrooms in his high school did not contain American flags.
Project Baltimore first spoke with Parker Jensen in April. Soon after, he sued Baltimore County Public Schools. And now, that lawsuit has been settled.
It was just last month when Project Baltimore broke the news that Jensen, a Marine hopeful, was suspended from school for seven days, after he went to Baltimore County Public Schools headquarters to ask why some classrooms at Towson High were missing American flags. According to state law and BCPS school board policy, all classrooms must contain the flag.
As a result of that suspension, Jensen was barred from attending his prom and his own high school graduation.
After Project Baltimore first interviewed Jensen, he hired an attorney and sued BCPS, claiming the district violated his constitutional rights by suspending him without cause. Now, just weeks later, Jensen and Baltimore County Public Schools say they have reached a settlement agreement.
“That was fast,” stated Project Baltimore’s Chris Papst.
“Yeah,” agreed Jensen.
“Settlements don't usually happen in weeks,” Papst acknowledged.
Jensen, told Project Baltimore as part of the settlement, he cannot disclose the monetary amount he received. BCPS also asked him to sign a non-disparagement agreement – prohibiting him from saying anything negative about BCPS for two years.
“I'm assuming you're happy with the settlement amount,” said Papst.
“Yeah. Yeah. I'm very happy. I think it's fair for both parties, as well,” Jensen responded.
The last few weeks have been a whirlwind for the 18-year-old.
After Project Baltimore told his story, it went viral, with national news outlets, such Fox News and the New York Post, picking it up. One post on the social media platform X, got 1.3 million views.
“Did you expect that?” Inquired Papst.
“No. Honestly, no. I thought that it would just be our interview,” replied Jensen. “And then it would be local people. It’s definitely added a lot of craziness. More good than bad, I'd say.”
With all the attention, Jensen says he heard from friends and family offering support. Maryland State Delegate Stuart Schmidt honored Jensen with an “Official Citation” from the Maryland General Assembly thanking him for his “Patriotism”. On June 27th, he’ll receive the “Young Patriot of the Year” award from the Baltimore City Republican Party. Jensen was even contacted by current and former Marines, who he did not previously know.
“It's been very uplifting to know that I have support from people in the armed forces,” remarked Jensen.
Jensen also received the Charles B. Elder Sr. Memorial Scholarship from the American Legion post 174 out of Timonium. The scholarship recognizes graduating seniors who enlist in the military. Jensen was then invited to participate in Flag Day ceremonies with the American Legion on June 14.
But Jensen’s story isn’t quite over. Someone at district headquarters made a decision to suspend him. That decision cost taxpayers money. Again, we don’t know how much money – Jensen can’t say. But has anyone at BCPS been held accountable? After all, the school system says it doesn’t have enough funding.
At a recent press event, Project Baltimore asked Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers if anyone has been held to account.
“The school system cannot make a comment. The only comment I can make is, that the matter has been resolved amongst both parties,” said Rogers.
“But has anyone have been held accountable?” Asked a Project Baltimore producer.
“I wouldn't be able to comment further on personnel matters or other details,” responded Rogers.
In August, Jensen reports for Marine boot camp. But on the evening of May 17, he was focused on something else - Senior prom 2025, which was an experience Jensen thought he’d miss.
“As far as going to prom. How important was that for you?” Asked Papst.
“Very important. You only get one,” replied Jensen.
With the settlement agreement signed, Jensen was able to attend his prom where he proudly wore an American flag pin on his lapel.
“It's the whole reason I went into this - was about the flag,” explained Jensen. “So, I felt like it was kind of a staple to wear today because this is a special night. It should be a fun night.”
A night that marks the end of a journey, that almost didn’t happen.
“This is the end of the first chapter. Definitely, you’ll see more of me somewhere,” concluded Jensen.