The explosion of social media and technology has opened doors to new outlets of communication. This has presented school administrators – and judges – with major questions about how First Amendment protections online may differ from those in person.
Author: Nikki McGee
Hazelwood’s expanding influence
When making its ruling in Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, the Supreme Court stated in it’s opinion that it “need not now decide whether the same degree of deference is appropriate with respect to school-sponsored expressive activities at the college and university level.” The need to decide may not be far off.
N.C. outlaws fake social media profiles of school officials
Less than a month after the Supreme Court’s ruling upholding the right to make false claims, North Carolina has made it illegal for students to make fake social media profiles mocking school administrators.
Superintendent, police investigate gossip Twitter account about Minn. school
School administrators and local police are investigating a Twitter account they say was created by several students and recent graduates of Worthington High School to gossip about classmates.
Del. lawmakers vote to ban colleges from asking for social media passwords
On the last day of its session, the Delaware legislature passed a bill which prohibits both public and private colleges and universities from requiring students to hand over their social media passwords.
Florida Atlantic loses second student media director in two years
Florida Atlantic University will lose its second student media director in two years on June 18.Michael Gaede has served as FAU’s student media director since September.
New York legislators propose bill to end anonymity in online comments
A bill pending in the New York legislature would require website administrators, upon request of any viewer, to remove anonymous posts from a commenter who will not confirm their full name and home address.
ACLU files new 'boobies' bracelet lawsuit; similar Ind. case settled
TheACLU of Indiana filed a lawsuit against Fort Wayne Community Schools on May 18over an “I (Heart) Boobies” breast cancer awareness bracelet.
Groups release new guidelines on bullying, free speech — but some have concerns
After a year and a half of collaborating and drafting, “Harassment, Bullying and Free Expression,” a set of guidelines geared toward free and safe public schools, were released at a press conference Tuesday.The guide distinguishes between free speech and harassment.
Ohio student settles lawsuit over 'Jesus is Not a Homophobe' shirt for $20,000
WaynesvilleHigh School junior Maverick Couch will now be allowed to wear his “Jesus is Nota Homophobe” T-shirt to school whenever he chooses, following a settlement formalized Monday in federal court.