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Board backs student journalism after controversy at Lowell; resolution passed
Summary
After students and advisers from Lowell and other schools testified, the Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a resolution affirming the importance of student journalism, calling for SFUSD policies that respect student First Amendment protections and urging support for student newsrooms.
The Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a resolution on May 13 declaring support for student journalism and urging the San Francisco Unified School District to adopt consistent policies protecting student journalists’ First Amendment rights.
Supervisor Mirna Melgar introduced the resolution with multiple cosponsors and praised student journalists at Lowell High School for reporting that prompted national attention. Dozens of student speakers, past and present reporters, and representatives of journalism organizations (including the Society of Professional Journalists Northern California chapter and the San Francisco Youth Commission) told the board that student reporting should be protected rather than chilled by administrative actions.
Students and alumni described the professional standards followed by their programs and said the Lowell adviser’s reassignment undermined students’ ability to practice journalism and learn through hands‑on reporting. The boardmembers who spoke in favor noted that student journalists deserve training, legal clarity and support, and that high schools should foster rather than stifle independent student reporting.
The resolution passed under "same house, same call" and was adopted after debate and statements in favor from multiple supervisors. The board urged SFUSD to review and produce consistent procedures to protect student press rights.
Why it matters: The resolution addresses district‑level personnel decisions and school‑based editorial processes by reaffirming the city’s support for student journalism. Board action can influence SFUSD policy deliberations and encourage protections for student newsrooms.
What the board asked SFUSD to do: The resolution asks SFUSD to develop and implement policies consistent with legal protections for student press and to provide training and support for advisers and student journalists. The board also recorded the widespread civic interest from students and journalism professionals who testified in person.
