Frederick Court Case

Justice Roberts (2007) explained that the United States Supreme Court granted judicial review based “on two questions: whether Frederick had a First Amendment right to wield his banner, and, if so, whether that right was so clearly established that the principal may be held liable for damages” (p. 5). The first question against Frederick was resolved by the Court; however, the Court had “no occasion to reach the second” (Roberts, 2007, p. 5). Due to the event occurring during the normal operating hours of the school and being authorized by Principal Morse as a class trip or social function, school rules apply. Justice Roberts (2007) explained that the “school district’s rules expressly provide that pupils in approved social events and class trips are subject to district rules for student conduct” (p. 6). Administration and teachers were dispersed among the students when Frederick displayed his banner in clear view of most students. Due to Frederick being around his fellow students during a regular hour school event, the Court agreed with the superintendent that Frederick could not deny that he was at school. …show more content…
It is no doubt offensive to some, perhaps amusing to others. To still others, it probably means nothing at all” (p. 6). Frederick claimed that the banner was utilized to attract the attention of the cameras and that it had no meaning. However, the Court agreed with Principal Morse’s concern regarding how other individuals might interpret the banner. Due to the wording “bong hit,” Morse believed that the student body might reference that to smoking marijuana. This in turn could cause parents, staff, and other community members to believe that the banner was advocating illegal drug use which would be in violation of the school