Case Name: Bethel School District No. 403 v. Fraser
Year: Argued 1986 ; Decided 1986
Result: 7-2 in favor of Bethel School District
Related Constitutional Issue/ Amendment: 1st Amendment and the freedom of speech, press, and assembly
Civil Rights or Civil Liberties: Civil Liberties
Significance/ Precedent: The Court stated that it was appropriate for the school to prohibit the use of vulgar and offensive language. Burger concluded that the First Amendment did not prohibit schools from prohibiting vulgar and lewd speech since such discourse was inconsistent with the "fundamental values of public school education."
Quote from Majority Opinion: "We granted certiorari to decide whether the First Amendment prevents a school district from disciplining a high school student for giving a lewd speech at a school assembly."
6-Word Summary: Schools can control a students speech
Year: Argued 1986 ; Decided 1986
Result: 7-2 in favor of Bethel School District
Related Constitutional Issue/ Amendment: 1st Amendment and the freedom of speech, press, and assembly
Civil Rights or Civil Liberties: Civil Liberties
Significance/ Precedent: The Court stated that it was appropriate for the school to prohibit the use of vulgar and offensive language. Burger concluded that the First Amendment did not prohibit schools from prohibiting vulgar and lewd speech since such discourse was inconsistent with the "fundamental values of public school education."
Quote from Majority Opinion: "We granted certiorari to decide whether the First Amendment prevents a school district from disciplining a high school student for giving a lewd speech at a school assembly."
6-Word Summary: Schools can control a students speech