Morgan Hill, Calif. ? The parents of five Morgan Hill high school students who were sent home after showing up in clothing emblazoned with American flags on Cinco de Mayo say the school’s decision was “un-American.”

The boys say the assistant principal of Live Oak High School told them on Wednesday to take off their shirts or turn them inside out because they were offending some Hispanic students and school officials worried they could spark a fight.

The boys’ shorts and shoes also had American flags.

The boys say when they refused, they were sent home.

Austin Carvalho, one of the boys, said they were not trying to start trouble. At least two of the boys are part Mexican.

Nick Boden, the school’s principal, declined comment. But Jay Totter, a spokesman for the district, said district officials disagreed with the decision.