school officials from "prior review or restraint" of any school publication (Taylor 1). Martinez questions, "Professional papers aren't censored. Why should student publications be?" (1).Many organizations, such as the Student Press Law Center, are designed for the sole purpose of protecting students' First Amendment rights. According to the SPLC, Hazelwood doesn't apply to publications opened as "public forums for student expression." (Top Ten 1). Such organizations help, but they don't completely reverse the Hazelwood decision. Something must be done to eliminate Hazelwood as a deciding factor. Although these bills are helpful, they do not eliminate censorship in the other forty-four states. In December of 1999, the distribution of a school newspaper came to an abrupt halt in Elkton, Oregon. The editor of arts and entertainment wrote a response that Superintendent Charlie Sharps deemed "offensive to the community." (Student's 1). Because of senior Andy Baird's editorial response, the school board stopped circulation of the Elk Call (1-2). Unfortunately, student newspapers are not the only form of expression being censored. In Michigan last year, junior Eric VanHoven was suspended twice for a total of three days for wearing t-shirts with the names of the bands Korn and Tool (Hudson 1). The shirts merely had the bands names printed on them; however after looking up song lyrics of the bands, the school's officials decided they were "offensive enough to merit a suspension." or two in VanHoven's case (1). Sadly, VanHoven and Baird are not alone in their fight against censorship. Graduation is a time that will always stay in one's memory. Especially when privileged with being valedictorian and giving a speech. Amy Kniss, last year's valedictorian of Silveredo High School in Victorville, California, will always remember her graduation. Kniss learned that being first is often the most difficult. She gave the valedictory speech at the school'...
