An Essay on Censorship in Student Media and the Different Levels of Censorship Allowed by the Tinker and Hazelwood Standards

The first amendment, though only 45 words in its entirety, has proved the most profound and widest reaching law in the United States Constitution, giving the people of the United States free speech, freedom of the press, freedom to choose and observe any religion, the right to peaceably assemble, and the right to petition the government. Through and in the name of the first amendment' s protection of the press, all members of society are allowed to voice their opinion in written form for dispersal into the public. However, this freedom is limited to that which does not commit slander or libel, whether you are a student or professional publication. Though all publications must have a working knowledge of the first amendment, student publications are in a delicate position in terms of legality and freedom due the restrictions placed upon student speech while in school. …