Policy 505.02

Student Publications

School-sponsored student publications and electronic media productions serve several functions, the most fundamental of which is to instruct students in the basic skills of responsible journalism within the school setting. The Board encourages the development of student-produced newspapers, yearbooks and electronic media.

Such school publications shall provide opportunities for student expression and, within the framework of law and board policies, students will be free to provide thoughtful, relevant comment on topics of interest to readers.

The faculty adviser will monitor style, grammar, format and appropriateness of materials. Students will be directed by faculty adviser to judge literary value, newsworthiness and to recognize and edit out material considered obscene, libelous, slanderous or apt to incite students to the commission of unlawful acts, violations of school regulations or to disrupt school operations.

The school principal may prevent or restrict publication, production or distribution of school-sponsored student publications and electronic media for any valid educational purpose or reason, including, but not limited to, the standards and objectives set forth in this policy.

Proposed: November 9, 1996
Adopted: December 9, 1996
Revised: April 10, 2006