Policy 504.01
Freedom of Speech
Provision for expression of differences of opinion as provided in the First Amendment shall be adequately provided and protected. No person, however, has an absolute right to freedom of expression. Prohibition of a particular expression of opinion or means of expression shall be based upon something more than a mere desire to avoid the discomfort and unpleasantness that may accompany a particular point of view.
The primary liberties in a student’s life have to do with the process of inquiry and learning, or acquiring and imparting knowledge, and of exchanging ideas. This process requires that students have the right to express opinions, to take stands, and to support causes, publicly or privately except where the practice materially and substantially interferes with the school atmosphere and educational process.
Any material which promotes anti-Americanism, subversions, illegal acts, social or religious discrimination, or are obscene or libelous or contributes to the physical disruption of the orderly operation of the school shall be discouraged and/or prohibited.
Any limitations of student expression imposed for any reason under the foregoing provisions shall be applied on a non-discriminatory basis and in a manner designed to assure maximum freedom of expression to the students. Any student or student groups claiming deprivation of freedom of expression may appeal under the grievance process (Student Handbook).
Approved: September 14, 1992
Revised: September 12, 1996
Revised: April 10, 2006