Students Speak Freely began with a simple question: do students understand their First Amendment rights in school?

The First Amendment is one of the most important protections in American civic life, but many students are never given a clear, accessible explanation of how free speech applies in K–12 schools. Court cases involving student speech can be complex, and the rules are not always easy to understand.

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Students Speak Freely was created to help bridge that gap.

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This project explores the cases, principles, and real-world issues that shape student expression in public schools. From landmark Supreme Court decisions to current debates about social media, protests, school publications, and student discipline, Students Speak Freely seeks to make these topics understandable for students, families, educators, and communities.

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At its heart, this project is about education and civic engagement. Students should know that their voices matter. They should also understand that free expression comes with responsibilities, limits, and an important role in democratic life.

By making student speech law more accessible, Students Speak Freely hopes to encourage informed discussion, respectful dialogue, and greater awareness of the rights and responsibilities that shape life inside and outside the classroom.

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We believe that when students understand their rights, they are better prepared to use their voices thoughtfully, responsibly, and confidently.