A landmark case in First Amendment Rights as it applies to the school setting, Mary Beth Tinker tell her story of peaceful dissent. The simple action of wearing a black armband to her school, Warren harding Junior High, resulted in the suspension of her and four other students.

As her city and the press began to become aware of her actions, her story elevated to a national known issue. Ultimately, it ended up with a Supreme Court ruling that became the standard for many schools guidelines concerning student’s First Amendment Rights.

From their first day forward, students at Lamar Academy in McAllen, Texas, are encouraged to be open-minded in discussing controversial social and political topics. They are also challenged to be risk-takers and to find and support causes they care about. The relationship between students and faculty is more of a partnership; a collaboration.

Students will notify the administration on walk-outs they are planning and seek their response and/or support. It is an unusual dynamic that has created a very bright, caring and passionate group of students who are plugged into today’s social and political issues.

One thing is certain, every school has their own policy concerning First Amendment Rights of students. Some student papers enjoy no prior review and prior restraint. Others do not. Some schools support student causes that may include a walk-out. Others, view it as a challenge to authority.

Whatever the school’s attitude is toward First Amendment Rights, it’s dictated by the administration of that school. Here are some views shared by administration and counselors concerning their policy, attitudes and beliefs concerning these rights.