A legal Analysis of the Effects of Morse v. Frederick on Student Speech in K-12 Education

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Morse v. Frederick on student speech in K-12 public schools. Cases meeting the research criteria were selected from federal court districts. Those cases were briefed and analyzed. The results of the research were used to develop findings that were placed into four categories: (1) the concurring opinion’s support for school safety, (2) political and social commentary, (3) harassment of school officials, and (4) speech concerning possession, distribution, and use of illegal drugs while at school. The findings led to the development of recommendations for school officials to consider regarding student speech and the development of a Four-Prong Speech Progression Test.