How to Protect the Civil Rights of High School Students

Although the rights of students in high school have been continuously debated for years, all students share in some basic civil rights when they are inside a school building. Making sure that student's civil rights aren't violated is a great step towards teaching kids about the importance of civil rights for all.

Instructions

1. Be aware that students have the right to freedom from discrimination. This covers everything from race to religion.

2. Understand a student's civil rights in areas of freedom of expression. This would include things like dress code violations, religious expressions and freedom from censorship.

3. Pay attention to rules about mandatory drug testing in schools. Many schools require drug testing for student athletes involved in extra curricular activities, and some of these programs could be seen as a violation of student's civil rights.

4. Look carefully at your child's student code of conduct at the beginning of each school year. This book will outline in detail the requirements of all students. Talk to your child regularly about how rules are enforced and penalties are carried out.

5. Hold teachers and administrators accountable for providing equal access to students for clubs and organizations after the regular school day. Students should not be banned from organizing clubs as long as they fit the school guidelines of faculty sponsorship.

6. Take care in understanding your child's right to privacy while at school. School teachers and administrators have an obligation to provide a safe and effective environment for all students during the school day. A child's rights to privacy, while a civil right, may be limited for the good of the entire school population.

7. Challenge civil rights violations only when you are convinced that they have been violated. Civil rights law suits can take years, so it's important to choose your battles wisely.