Editorial Policy
Veritas Exquirere
(the search for the truth)
OPHS TALON MISSION STATEMENT:
The Talon, produced by Oak Park High School Students, strives to discuss and bring attention to current events through a public forum for student expression. The paper aims to inform the student body in a reliable and relevant manner.
OFFICIAL OPUSD BOARD POLICY:
Freedom of Speech/Expression
The Governing Board believes that free inquiry and exchange of ideas are essential parts of a democratic education. The Board respects students' rights to express ideas and opinions, take stands on issues, and support causes, even when such speech is controversial or unpopular.
On-Campus Expression
Students shall have the right to exercise freedom of speech and of the press including, but not limited to, the use of bulletin boards; the distribution of printed materials or petitions; the wearing of buttons, badges and other insignia; and the right of expression in official publications. (Education Code 48907)
Student expression on district or school Internet web sites and on-line media shall generally be afforded the same protections as print media. (cf. 1113 - District and School Web Sites) (cf. 6163.4 – Student Use of Technology)
Students' freedom of expression shall be limited only as allowed by Education Code 48907, 48950 and other applicable state and federal laws. Students are prohibited from making any expressions or distributing or posting any materials that are obscene, libelous or slanderous. Students also are prohibited from making any expressions that so incites students as to create a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts on school premises, the violation of school rules, or substantial disruption of the school's orderly operation. (Education Code 48907) (cf. 5145.7 - Sexual Harassment) (cf. 5145.9 - Hate-Motivated Behavior)
The use of "fighting words" or epithets is prohibited in those instances where the speech is abusive and insulting rather than a communication of ideas, and the speech is used in an abusive manner in a situation that presents an actual danger that it will cause a breach of the peace. School officials shall not engage in prior restraint of material prepared for official school publications except insofar as the content of the material violates the law. (Education Code OAK PARK UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD POLICY Series 5000 Students BP 5145.2(b) 48907)
The Superintendent or designee shall not discipline any high school student solely on the basis of speech or other communication that would be constitutionally protected when engaged in outside of school, but may impose discipline for harassment, threats or intimidation unless constitutionally protected. (Education Code 48950)
