This year, Mr. Matson developed a new History elective entitled “You and the Law.” The purpose of the course was to expand the course offerings of HSEP, as well as to discuss the relevant legal issues that young students face daily. Mr. Matson took a group of his students from his class to meet with Mary Beth Tinker. Ms. Tinker, the famous young student from
Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District, gave a presentation about one of the most important cases relating to the First Amendment and Public Schools. The Tinker case set the standard for free speech in public schools, stating that "It can hardly be argued that either students or teachers shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.”
Mr. Matson and his students were able to hear first hand about how young students can be advocates for social change. As a result of this presentation, students from the “You and the Law” class have been working to form Student Government at the High School Extension Program.
Take a look at the slideshow of photos from our visit with Ms. Tinker.
Learn more about Mary Beth Tinker and the Tinker Tour >>