Code No. 504.2

Student Personnel

Student Publications

School-sponsored publications provide a way for students to learn reading, writing, and responsible journalism.  The printed materials should not encourage the breaking of laws, cause defamation of persons, or contain obscenity.  All publications must identify the author and/or editor and publisher.

Administrators shall review student publications and enforce the standards outlined above; however, it is not the duty of administrators to “censor” materials in any way except on the basis of those standards

only.  In order to protect students’ rights, administrative review of materials must be done quickly within a specific length of time, and students must be informed of the appeal procedure in case they disagree with an administrative judgment.

Non school-sponsored publications are subject to the same standards listed.  The administration may prohibit the distribution of such publications, unless the students submit a copy for administrative review.

The principal may designate the time, place, and manner of distribution for all student publications, school-sponsored or otherwise.

Legal Reference:    Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1998).

                                Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822F.2d 747 (8th  Cir. 1987).

                                Iowa Code Chapter 280.22 (2003).

Cross Reference:   300 Series       Communication Channels

                                500 Series       Student Rights and Responsibilities      

                                500 Series       Student Activities

                                900 Series       Distribution of Material

Approved:  September 11, 1989         

Reviewed:  November 15, 2004         

Revised: