Research Guides: Libertas Civics Camp 8.0: School Sponsored Events and Freedom of Speech

Bethel School District No. 403 v. Fraser

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. - The First Amendment to the United States Constitution

Objectives:

Students will learn about liberties and limitations of freedom of speech that are identified in landmark Supreme Court cases.
Students will learn about ________________ and how it relates to ________________ in school.
Students will demonstrate their knowledge by creating a group project and present at the Family and Community Civics Event.

Focus Questions:

What are the key principles and protections of freedom of speech in the United States Constitution?
Why is freedom of speech important in a community or country?
How does freedom of speech affect students in school?
How does freedom of speech connect to the right to express opinions and beliefs?
How does Bethel School District No. 403 v. Fraser define freedom of speech?
How does Bethel School District No. 403 v. Fraser protect freedom of speech?
How does Bethel School District No. 403 v. Fraser limit freedom of speech?

Student Resources: Bethel School District No. 403 v. Fraser

Bethel School District No. 403 v. Fraser
At a school assembly of approximately 600 high school students, Matthew Fraser made a speech nominating a fellow student for elective office. In his speech, Fraser used what some observers believed was a graphic sexual metaphor to promote the candidacy of his friend. As part of its disciplinary code, Bethel High School enforced a rule prohibiting conduct which "substantially interferes with the educational process . . . including the use of obscene, profane language or gestures." Fraser was suspended from school for two days.
Bethel School District No. 403 v. Fraser 1986 (Supreme Court Drama)
Article Contents:
- School Assembly
- Fraser Sues
- Fraser Loses
- Side Bar: Oleff v East Side Union High School District
- No Warning

Free Speech and Expression by Noël Merino (Editor); Noël Merino (Editor)
Call Number: 342.73 FRE
A collection of essays that explores arguments over teenagers' rights to free speech and expression, discussing how the laws pertain to them and exploring legal cases related to the issue.

Quick Read: First Amendment
Article Sections:
- The arguments for free speech
- Many types of speech
- No coverage for obscenity
- Not an absolute freedom
- Clear and present danger test
- A balancing act
- Commerce, jails, and schools
- Time, place, and manner restrictions
First Amendment Research Launch Page
Research Information using:
- Reference articles
- Case Overviews
- Primary Sources
- Biographies
- Academic Journals
- Magazines
- Newspapers
Freedom of Speech Research Launch Page
Research information using:
- Reference Articles
- Primary Sources
- Biographies
- Academic Journals
- Magazines

Teacher Resources: Bethel School District No. 403 v. Fraser

Matthew Fraser, 18 Feb 1988, Spanaway, Washington (Bettmann/CORBIS)

Key Vocabulary:

Assembly
Vulgar
Lewd
Offensive
Disruptive

Lesson Plans:

Exploring Bethel School District vs. Fraser, 1986 in a Pro Se Court Activity
Students will explore judicial review, elastic clause, individual rights of citizens, and the supremacy clause by
participating in a pro se court regarding Bethel School District vs. Fraser.
Bethel School District v. Fraser (1986)
This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court's decision that established a school's ability to prohibit inappropriate student language on campus.