Free Speech: K-12 Schools

Public school students do not lose their First Amendment rights at the schoolhouse gate. The First Amendment protects the right to express opinions, wear expressive clothing, and participate in peaceful protest or assembly, even on controversial topics. The Nevada Constitution mirrors these protections and also protects race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, ancestry, and national origin. However, schools may place reasonable restrictions on speech to maintain order, protect the rights of others, and ensure that education is not disrupted.