I agree completely. When I as in high school back in the 1980s, we all understood that the school's first responsibility was to provide an orderly and safe learning environment. The school regulations clearly stated that "protests" would not be tolerated and would result in disciplinary measures. No one went around playing the gadfly.
Regarding Duck's refusal to comment, that is exactly what he should have done. Unlike Miss Smith, he didn't fire off with some smarmy comment on her background. Duck took his punishment for the DUI, so what exactly is her beef anyway? And speaking of being smarmy, Miss Smith needs this little lesson in manners and tact, because one day she'll run across someone who'll do more, perhaps a lot more, than decline to comment. Her actions are immature.
Well put. There is no doubt in my mind the immature 18-year-old was taking a direct shot at the principal. The sad thing is that most posters here know that as well and won't admit it because they abhor authority and or public schools as much as this ignorant 18-year old junior does.
I think a lot of folks think that high school is a place for kids to say and do cool, rebellious things. I don't think the courts see it that way. I believe they think that schools are educational institutions. Imagine that.
The rule in a public school is something along the order of: free speech that doesn't disrupt the educational purpose. I see no problem with that.
I agree about the principal. He could have shot off his mouth, too, but he didn't.