Overview

Recent attempts to censor student journalism are on the rise in California schools, affecting student reporters and their advisers. Despite the protections offered by the Student Free Expression Act of 1977, cases of interference with student publications have been reported, raising concerns about press freedom in educational settings.

At Redwood High School in Marin County, student journalists have faced similar challenges, including attempts by school administrators to control the narrative presented in their publications. These incidents highlight a growing trend of censorship within the state's educational institutions.

Key details

  • Student journalists at the Redwood Bark are experiencing attempts to control their reporting.
  • The Student Free Expression Act of 1977 prohibits interference with the gathering and publication of news by student journalists.
  • Recent censorship attempts include punishing advisers for student stories and removing content.
  • A principal at Redwood High School instructed student journalists to portray the school positively.
  • A Superior Court judge ordered the reinstatement of Eric Gustafson, a journalism adviser at Lowell High School, after he was removed last year.
  • The San Francisco Unified School District claimed Gustafson was transferred for his lack of experience and education.
  • Gustafson attributed his removal to his students' investigative stories on sensitive topics.
  • The court found the district's reasons for Gustafson's reassignment to be unconvincing.
  • A trial is set for November regarding a lawsuit against the Mountain View Los Altos High School District.
  • The lawsuit alleges that principal Kip Glazer intimidated student reporters covering sexual harassment issues.
  • Glazer reportedly pressured students to present the school in a positive light.
  • Student journalists at Mountain View High School were told their role was to uplift the school.

Context

The rise in censorship attempts against student journalism in California reflects broader concerns about press freedom and the rights of students to express themselves. The Student Free Expression Act was established to protect these rights, yet recent incidents suggest that many school administrations may not fully adhere to these protections.

What happens next

As legal proceedings unfold, particularly the upcoming trial in November, the outcomes may set important precedents for student journalism and the extent of administrative control over student publications in California schools.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific outcomes of the lawsuits and the full implications of the recent censorship attempts on student journalism are not confirmed.