Having no money to start a school newspaper actually benefitted the kids at a rural Mississippi high school. Because of money troubles, the newspaper became a cross-curricular project that drew on community support, gave students practical experience, and exposed them to real-world possibilities. The paper was free and involved all ability and…

The principal whose decision to remove articles on teenage problems from a school-sponsored newspaper led to a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision (Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier) explains that the articles failed to meet curriculum standards for responsible and ethical journalism. An inset details Hazelwood's "winning" policy guidelines for…

Reviews recent court decision in which a principal censored articles from student newspaper because of possible invasion of privacy concerns. The lower courts held in favor of school, but the higher court (Eighth Circuit) reversed lower court's decision. School executives must chart narrow course between student lawsuit under First Amendment or…

In "Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier," the Supreme Court ruled that school officials have final prepublication review over the contents of public school newspapers. This decision can be a victory for would-be journalists if students and educators alike can better define the standards and boundaries of responsible journalism. (MLF)

When done properly, a school newsletter can be a valuable public relations tool. To keep newsletters informative and effective, principals should allow sufficient time, personnel, and funding. Tips are offered as to tone, writing style, readability, format, and involvement of parents and local businesses. (MLH)

Forecasts no major surprises during the U.S. Supreme Court's 1987-88 term. Like the "Edwards v. Aguillard" ruling against Louisiana's creation science law, upcoming decisions concerning religious issues (controversial textbooks and moments of silence) and free speech (language use and controversial subject matter in student publications)…

The First Amendment protects editors of school newspapers. Accordingly, school policy should offer students due process rights, and the newspaper adviser, who is instrumental in controlling the content of student publications, should be chosen with care. (TE)