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.

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.