Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District
Definition
This is a landmark Supreme Court case from 1969 that established the principle of student free speech in schools. The court ruled that students do not lose their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.
Analogy
Think of this like a dress code at your school. Just because you're on school property doesn't mean you lose your right to express yourself through your clothing, as long as it's not disruptive or inappropriate. In the same way, Tinker v. Des Moines affirmed students' rights to express their opinions, even in a school setting.
Related terms
First Amendment: The part of the U.S Constitution that guarantees freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition.
Symbolic Speech: A legal term in United States law used to describe actions that purposefully and discernibly convey a particular message or statement to those viewing it.
Student Rights: Legal rights provided by both state and federal law giving certain freedoms and protections to students in public education.
"Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District" appears in:
Study guides (2)
Practice Questions (2)
- What key principle was established in the Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District (1969) case?
- How has the ruling in Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District (1969) impacted student speech in educational environments?
Resources
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