Bethel School District Vs. Fraser
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On April 26, 1983, Matthew Fraser, a student at Bethel High School in Bethel, Washington, delivered a speech nominating a fellow student for a student elective office to his fellow high school mates. The assembly was part of a school-sponsored educational program in self government. During the entire speech, Fraser referred to his candidate in terms of “elaborate, graphic, and explicit sexual metaphor.” However, no obscene language was used.
Fraser discussed his speech with three of his teachers. Two of the teachers testified at the trial that they informed Matthew the speech was “inappropriate and that he probably should not deliver it.” They also mentioned that the speech might have “severe consequences,” but none of the three suggested that the speech might violate a school rule. So Matthew gave his speech, during which a school counselor observed the reaction of students. Some hooted and yelled; others appeared to be bewildered and embarrassed by the speech. A Bethel High School disciplinary rule prohibited the use of obscene language in the school: Conduct which materially and substantially interferes with the educational process is prohibited, including the use of obscene, profane language or gestures. The morning after the assembly, the assistant principal called Matthew into her office and notified him that the school considered his speech to have been a violation of this rule. The assistant principal informed Matthew that he would be suspended for three days and would be ineligible as a candidate for graduation speaker at the schools commencement exercises.
Matthew went to the schools hearing officer for a review of the disciplinary action. The examiner determined that the speech fell within the ordinary meaning of “obscene,” as used in the disruptive-conduct rule, and affirmed the discipline in its entirety. Fraser served two days of his suspension, and was allowed to return to school on the third day.
Matthews father appealed the school districts actions on behalf of his son to the federal district court. He alleged a violation of his First