First Amendment

Determining whether a teacher’s public criticism of a principal is protected Free Speech or conduct subject to discipline can be difficult. In this case, a Teacher was transferred to another school after she argued against and ultimately refused to change children’s grades under a policy instituted by the Principal. Once transferred, Teacher sued Principal for the alleged violation of the First Amendment Rights and wrongful termination. Ultimately, the court determined the Principal was not entitled to immunity for these actions because the teacher’s speech implicated a matter of public concern. Read this case now to ensure your district knows the contours of this employment issue.