Question

what is this case about?

Answer 1

The drama class at a middle school was preparing for their spring play in the school auditorium. One week before the performance, a parent complained to the school board that the play was inappropriate for middle school students. The school board agreed and contacted the principal, who then informed the classes that the show was canceled. Students were upset that their preparations were a waste. They believe they have the right to freedom of expression in performing the play. The school board said that students are minors and that it must approve decisions about what is presented in school by teachers or students. The students did not have time to plan a different show. A group of the students’ parents brought the case to court on their behalf, but they lost the case in state district court. The students’ parents appealed the district court’s decision to their state court of appeals. There the students and their parents won the case, but the school board appealed the decision to their state-level supreme court. The state supreme court ruled in favor of the school board. Unhappy with the state supreme court’s decision, the students’ parents are now appealing to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Answer 2

I don't remember all the details of Hazewood. It will take me a minute to review.
But basically, the Court has given more control over student expression the younger the students. Middle school, I'm not sure.
I can give you a better answer in a couple minutes if you'd like.

Answer 3

Ok, glad I checked. I remembered it going the other way>
In Hazelwood, a class producing a newspaper for suppressed by a principal the school board backed him. The case was heard in Federal courts at each level. SCOTUS; ruled for the principal arguing that the Board sponsors the newspaper and had legitimate interest in regulating content. The students were fulfilling course requirements. Non publication did not violate their rights.

You case is younger students doing a play. It started and stayed in state courts until it got to SCOTUS.. Otherwise, it is the same issue.

Based on Hazelwood and the Courts view of narrower rights for younger students, I think they'dd side with the School Board in this case.

Besides, with a play, last minute changes to take out objectionable parts would be easier than with a newspaper.
@Nikki_Skellington