Bethel School District No. v. Fraser (403 )

The morning after the assembly, the assistant principal called Fraser into her office. School administrators, she told Fraser, had ruled that his speech violated a Bethel High rule prohibiting "obscene" language. The rule in question read: "Conduct which materially and substantially interferes with the educational process is prohibited, including the use of obscene, profane language or gestures."

Fraser admitted having given the speech described, and he said that he had intended to use a sexual metaphor. He was suspended from school for three days. Moreover, his name was removed from the list of candidates for speaker at the upcoming graduation exercises. The school district's grievance process affirmed Matthew's punishment, but he enjoyed more success when he sued in the district court.