All students have the right to express themselves within an educational context.
View All RightsStudent journalism, student rights, security vs. freedom, censorship in school media, right to protest
“Public school students possess a range of free-expression rights under the First Amendment. Students can speak, write articles, assemble to form groups and even petition school officials on issues. The U.S. Supreme Court has said that students “do not shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech and expression at the schoolhouse gate.”
“This document describes in practical terms what the right to freedom of expression means for the public schools. We hope it provides students, teachers and administrators with a deeper understanding of their constitutionally guaranteed rights and responsibilities, as well as renewed respect for the power of free expression to enhance the educational experience.”
“Her journey started with wearing a black armband to school and proceeded to the landmark United States Supreme Court case Tinker v. Des Moines Independent School District (1969). But it by no means stopped there: Mary Beth Tinker, namesake of the “Tinker” decision, continues to be a free speech icon."
Explore student stories and podcasts from coast to coast. Our team of journalism fellows shares their stories from schools across the U.S.
Starting a student voice school chapter is easy. View our resources to help you get started, and learn what a local chapter can do in your community.
