Case A Decision Template

You have chosen to complete the Case A Decision Template. Note—You only have to complete and submit
either Case A or Case B for grading.
Zachary Stark
Your Name: ______________________________

Read the case below closely. As you read this case, imagine you are a Supreme Court justice analyzing the
case.

Case A
The drama class at a middle school was preparing for their spring play in the school auditorium. One week
before the performance, a parent complained to the school board that the play was inappropriate for middle
school students. The school board agreed and contacted the principal, who then informed the classes that the
show was canceled. Students were upset that their preparations were a waste. They believe they have the
right to freedom of expression in performing the play. The school board said that students are minors and that
it must approve decisions about what is presented in school by teachers or students. The students did not
have time to plan a different show. A group of the students' parents brought the case to court on their behalf,
but they lost the case in state district court. The students' parents appealed the district court's decision to their
state court of appeals. There the students and their parents won the case, but the school board appealed the
decision to their state-level supreme court. The state supreme court ruled in favor of the school board.
Unhappy with the state supreme court's decision, the students' parents are now appealing to the U.S.
Supreme Court.

Step 1: Answer the following questions in complete sentences.

What is this case about? freedom of speech

inappropriate content is still inappropriate, and

How is this case similar to the Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier case? the person in power still gets to say what is
and isn't inappropriate
Which type of expression listed in the First Amendment relates to this case?
speech, and action

Step 2: Make your Decision

Now it's time to pretend you are a judge! Explain, like a judge, your thoughts on the case and why you feel this
way. For each question you should explain your answer in at least two to three complete sentences.

Why did the school board believe they had the right to cancel the play?
bacause they arre in power
Why did the students believe they had the right to perform the play?
because the person in power should not be a dictator
Should the students be allowed to perform their school play? Why or why not? Give three reasons to
support your decision. At least one of your reasons should be based on what you learned about
the Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier case.

no.
*person in power said no
*they are the supreme
*they cannt be told no
 Reason #1:

Reason #2:

Reason #3:

Do you think the school should be allowed to censor the material of a school play or school newspaper?
Why or why not? Be sure to use what you know about the First Amendment to support your answer.

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