(Newberg, OR) -- The Newberg School Board says it will not rescind its controversial ban on Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ Pride flags and other political signs inside schools. The board voted four-to-three last night in favor of keeping the ban in place. Conservative board Chair Dave Brown, Vice-Chair Brian Shannon, Director Trevor DeHart and Director Renee Powell all voted in favor of the ban. In defending the ban, Powell said "lifting one group or several groups over another" does not create a "welcoming and safe" environment for all children. The vote follows a series of racially charged controversies at the school district, including a white teacher showing up to work wearing Blackface and revelations that Newberg High School students were participating in a racist "slave trade" group on Snapchat. Newberg High students were also accused of engaging in racist behavior during a home volleyball game against Century High School last week.