• IGDB: Student Publications

    Policy

    The Board encourages student publications as a classroom-related learning experience in courses such as English and journalism and extracurricular activities. These publications motivate students to develop their skills in writing and self-expression under the supervision of the course instructor or faculty sponsor. Student publications include print and online newspapers, podcasts, social media, websites, and yearbooks. The following guidelines regulate the publication and dissemination of student publications:

    District and School-Sponsored Publications

    • Faculty advisors or classroom instructors advise on style, grammar, format, and suitability of materials.
    • The District and school publications reflect the policy and judgment of the student editors. However, District and school staff members may review the suitability of any item submitted for publication. Students should be free to express opinions on controversial issues, but the material of a controversial nature may be subject to regulation if it would:
      • Substantially interfere with the educational mission of the schools or impinge on the rights of other students
      • Reasonably be perceived to advocate illegal conduct or conduct that is otherwise inconsistent with the shared values of a civilized social order
      • Reasonably be perceived to advocate the violation of the law or official school regulations
      • Be considered false or libelous, based upon available facts
      • Be potentially harmful to juveniles or offensive according to community standards as to what is suitable for minors
    • School leaders or District staff members decide the material's suitability after consultation with the student editor and faculty advisor. Parties have the right to appeal to the office of the Chief Academic Officer.

    Other Publications

    Students who edit, publish or wish to distribute online, handwritten, printed, or duplicated matter among their fellow students in the schools must assume responsibility for the publication's content. The school may restrict the time and place of distribution or prohibit the distribution of such publications.

    History

    • Adopted: October 4, 2001
    • Amended: March 29, 2022

    Legal References