Law, Ethics and News Literacy

High school journalists in Colorado are uniquely empowered by state law, specifically the Colorado Student Free Expression Law (C.R.S. 22-1-120). This law protects student journalists’ rights to exercise freedom of speech and the press in school-sponsored publications, including newspapers, broadcasts, and websites. It means that school administrators cannot censor or control content simply because it might be controversial or critical, as long as the work is not obscene, libelous, or likely to cause a substantial disruption to the school environment.

This legal protection gives student journalists in Colorado a powerful opportunity—but also a serious responsibility. Because they have the right to report freely, they must also commit to reporting ethically and accurately. That means verifying facts, being fair to all sides, respecting privacy when appropriate, and correcting mistakes when they happen. Covering high school events—whether sports, performances, or sensitive issues—requires balancing the public’s right to know with the need to protect individuals from harm or unfair treatment.

Ethical journalism builds trust and credibility. If student media is fair, respectful, and transparent, it earns respect from the school community and makes the case for keeping those First Amendment-style protections strong.