Put a muzzle on them

As you are aware from previous posts, I'm a proponent of free speech and freedom of the press in all public schools and private schools that receive any form of financial contributions from the government, state or federal.

So, I can't pass up the opportunity to help publicize the 2006 Jefferson Awards. The awards are handed out by the Thomas Jefferson Center for the Protection of Free Expression.

This year's awards list had plenty of schools represented with three high schools, a school system leader and a New Jersey university.

The List

Oak Ridge High School (TN) - After publication and distribution, Principal Becky Ervin collected 1,800 student newspapers because they contained articles on birth control, tattoos and body piercing.

Ervin is no longer the principal at the high school, according to the school's Web site, or I would provide contact information.

Wellington High School (FL) - Principal Cheryl Alligood allegedly took copies of student newspapers because they had articles about sex and virginity.

Alligood can be reached at 561-795-4900. I'm sure she would love to hear your thoughts on the matter.

Troy High School (CA) - The student newspaper editor was fired for profiling three gay students. The high school's phone number is 714-626-4400.

Feel free to check out the complete list. It includes a wide range of government officials from President Bush to U.S. Rep. Joe Barton