Do I have a right to an arts education? YES. California public schools must offer arts education to students in grades 1 through 12. For students in grades 1 through 12, your school must provide a course of study in visual and performing arts (VAPA), including (1) dance, (2) music, (3) theater, and (4) […]
Know your rights about Student Protests & Political Speech Can I be disciplined for participating in a walkout or off-campus protest? Because the law requires you to attend school, the administration can take corrective action against you for missing school, even if you miss school to participate in a political protest. However, the school cannot
Student Protests & Political Speech Read More »
Do I have the right to access social media while I’m at school? SOMETIMES. Your school can set rules about when it is appropriate to use devices that allow you to access social media services. Some schools may prohibit personal cell phones on campus. Some schools may block certain sites on their computers and networks.
Social Media Rights Read More »
Do I have the right to keep what’s on my phone private? YES. The privacy of your phone (or tablet or laptop), as well as your accounts with services like Instagram or Snapchat, is protected both by the United States and California Constitutions and by the California Electronic Communications Privacy Act (CalECPA)1. Can my school
Cell Phone Privacy Read More »
Do I have the right to refuse to be searched? YES. You always have a right to refuse a search and you should make clear that a search is taking place over your objection. But you should not use physical resistance to stop a search. Can my school search me without my consent? YES, but
Searches of Students Read More »
The Basics What is freedom of speech? Freedom of speech is the right to express your ideas and beliefs the way you choose. Freedom of speech protects what you say, what you write, and how you express yourself. It protects your ability to protest, meet with other people, and organize. Do I have the right
Student Expression Read More »
Can my school make a dress code policy? YES1. But your school’s dress code policy cannot be used to disfavor a specific message or single out one particular group of students. Please note charter schools may be subject to different rules than those below. Can my school enforce its dress code policy against only some
School Dress Codes & Uniforms Read More »
