JEA stands firmly behind student journalists’ press freedom. Where journalism students delve into the impact of such events as the invasion of the Capitol Jan. 6 and issues stemming from it, they create community engagement and understanding of journalistic responsibility, roles and values. Where the same students make final decisions of content without prior review and restraint, democracy’s ideals flourish and expand. We denounce all efforts to stifle student journalists, and we stand in solidarity with advisers who support them.

Constitution Day is Sept. 17

2025 Theme: Power to the People

The Scholastic Press Rights Committee has put together a set of activities and materials around the 2025 theme "Power to the People" for teachers to use in their classrooms this Constitution Day, Sept. 17. They range from full lesson plans to quick activities and ways to promote Constitution Day in your school community.

Press Rights Quick Links

Prior Review    |    Law-Ethics Manual    |    Key Cases    |    What Are Ethics     |    Tools of Truth

A short wish list for Santa from your journalism students

Dear Santa, I hope this letter finds you well.  I’m not sure what the COVID-19 cases look like up at the North Pole, but I would hope that you, Mrs. Claus, the reindeer and the elves have been maintaining social distance and wearing your masks (unlike too many of my fellow Americans). I imagine you have…

Should it stay or should it go? An ethics question

by Teresa Scribner, CJE After spending 17 years in the newspaper industry as a visual journalist, I feel like I have a solid grasp on leaving my personal beliefs at the door when I walk into a newsroom. For years, I bit my tongue on politics, religion and reality TV. Being able to compartmentalize has…

Apply now for 22nd annual FAPFA recognition

It’s again time to apply for the First Amendment Press Freedom Award. All first round applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CST Dec. 15. In its 22nd year, the recognition is designed to identify and recognize high schools that actively support and protect First Amendment rights of their students and teachers.  Schools will be…

The little things can add up when it comes to transparency in reporting

by Stan Zoller, MJE It’s not clear how the saying got started, but one thing is for sure, it’s a truism. Little things do add up.And they may be able to help take the pain out of big things.  Like prior review. It’s no secret those student media unfortunate to have content reviewed by an administrator…

Red Panic Button

Need help with a censorship issue? You found it.

If you are a JEA member or students of a JEA member who need assistance concerning censorship issues, use the panic button below to generate an online form to explain your situation. This will go to a Scholastic Press Rights Committee member who will assist you quickly and notify others in your state so they can offer assistance. This outreach capability is a direct result of JEA’s Adviser Assistance Program and is designed to combat censorship issues advisers and students might face.