[SAJ]

Yes, but simultaneously they retain the normal expectation of property rights. Sue on 'privacy' grounds, and lose; sue on property grounds, and roll 'em away.

The relevant phrase of the Constitution being, of course:

''...nor be deprived of life, liberty or property, without due process of law; ...''

I should think that virtually any court would rule instantly that ''due process'' consists of rather more than some a&&wipe principal's diktat.

[Senator Bedfellow]

Yes, but simultaneously they retain the normal expectation of property rights.

Not relevant. The school can already seize Suzy's purse and search it on a reasonable suspicion - the cell phone will almost certainly turn out to be no different. They can't simply steal Suzy's purse, but they can hold it and search it. Google up New Jersey v. T.L.O. for the relevant case law.

I should think that virtually any court would rule instantly that ''due process'' consists of rather more than some a&&wipe principal's diktat.

You'd be wrong. In loco parentis goes a long, long way in these cases.

[Publius6961]

I should think that virtually any court would rule instantly that ''due process'' consists of rather more than some a&&wipe principal's diktat.

Managing brats produced by dysfunctional parents these days needs large doses of locally administered "due process"...

All responsible parents agree.
Deal with it.