Students will enjoy the constitutional rights of freedom of expression. They will have the right to express their views in speech, writing, or through any other medium or form of expression within limitations comparable to those imposed on all citizens but specifically designed for children and youth in a school setting.

The Board will encourage student publications not only because they offer an educational activity through which students gain experience in reporting, writing, editing, and understanding responsible journalism, but also because they provide an opportunity for students to express their views.

All student publications will be expected to comply with the rules for responsible journalism. Libelous statements, unfounded charges and accusations, obscenity, vulgar or obscene speech, pornographic material, material advocating racial or religious prejudice, hatred, violence, the breaking of laws and school regulations, materials promoting sexual harassment, or material which may responsibly lead to disruption of the educational process or impinging upon the rights of others, will not be permitted.

Expressions of personal opinion must be clearly identified as such, and bear the name of the author. Opportunity for expression of opinions differing from those of the student publishers must be provided.

Student literature and/or publications that are sponsored by the school district and/or produced under the direction of a teacher as part of the school curriculum are not considered a public forum. Material that is inappropriate, inconsistent with the district’s basic educational mission or may be harmful may be edited or distribution prohibited.

Distribution of school sponsored and non-school sponsored publications/literature subject to the above - students have a right to distribute literature on school grounds and in school buildings. The principal will reasonably regulate the time, place, and manner of distribution of literature. No literature may be distributed unless a copy is submitted at least 24 hours in advance to the building principal. The principal may prohibit the distribution if it does not comply with this policy. The principal will provide a decision within two (2) school days after receipt of the publication. If distribution is denied, the principal’s decision can be immediately appealed to the Superintendent of Schools or designee who shall provide a decision following receipt of said appeal.