Student Freedom of Speech and Expression Rights Policy
The official document
What the district published
This is the source material — exactly as released by RUSD. The plain English translation below is this site's version, written for community members who shouldn't need to know all the lingo to understand what they're legally entitled to as taxpayers, and how to access it.
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What this document actually says
This policy outlines students' rights to free speech and expression in Reed Union schools, including using bulletin boards, wearing buttons or badges, distributing materials, and contributing to school publications. The Board supports students expressing ideas and opinions, even controversial ones, while maintaining a safe environment. Speech can be restricted only when it is obscene, libelous, discriminatory, harassing, bullying, likely to incite unlawful action, or substantially disrupts school operations. The policy also addresses off-campus expression (like social media posts) when it threatens safety or disrupts the educational program. Originally adopted December 2004, last revised June 2023, next review scheduled April 2026.
What this means for your family
Your child has the right to express opinions and support causes at school through various means, including wearing buttons, distributing materials, and contributing to school publications. However, speech that is discriminatory, harassing, threatening, or significantly disruptive can result in discipline. This policy also covers your child's off-campus social media activity if it threatens school safety or disrupts learning.
Summaries are AI-assisted and based on the original district document shown above. Nothing has been editorialized — interpretations are clearly labeled. This site is maintained by Lina Godfrey's campaign as a community resource.