Judge Rejects Free Speech Lawsuit From Student Who Threatened Teacher
ATLANTA – A federal judge recently dismissed the lawsuit of a student who claims her right to free speech was violated when she was suspended from a Fulton County high school for writing a story about shooting her teacher.
Rachel Boim, who at the time of the 2003 incident was 14, was expelled for bringing a journal to class that included a story about a dream she had of shooting her math teacher. According to school officials, a teacher confiscated the notebook after the story was passed around the student’s art class. Although the school considered her actions a serious threat, Boim’s punishment was later reduced to a 10-day suspension.
The judge, who completely supported the school’s decision, also rejected a lawsuit by the girl’s parents to collect reimbursement for legal fees. An attorney for the family said they plan to appeal the decision.
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