In 2017, Vista Del Lago High School in Folsom, California, became the focus of public debate after it advised students to be cautious when chanting “USA” during school events such as sports games and rallies. While the chant was traditionally used to express school spirit and national pride, staff raised concerns that it could sometimes be seen as intolerant or offensive, depending on the context.

The issue came up during a student leadership class, where school officials discussed how in other parts of the country, the chant had occasionally been used in a negative or mocking way, particularly toward students from diverse backgrounds. Because of this, the school asked students to be mindful and to use the chant at appropriate times, like after the National Anthem or the Pledge of Allegiance.