Do I have to sign the paper at school that takes away my rights?

Question

At the beginning of school each new year the school makes students sign papers that strips them of their rights. I was wondering if I could not sign the paper and still attend school, so I could enjoy my rights as an American citizen and still learn.

The only reason why I haven't tried this is because I was too scared to, but as I approach my final year of public school I want to know how far I can push the limits.

Any ideas?

Answer 1

What "rights" are you talking about?

School is not a democracy.  The only "rights" you have are the ones given by the school.

For example, You do not have the right to be disruptive to other students, or to ignore the dress code (if your school has one).  You do not have the right of free speech on school grounds, or during school events.

Why cause trouble for yourself now?  Wait until college or working at McDonald's to rebel.

Answer 2

Just exactly which rights are being taken away?

Sometimes schools get cought up in being too PC or go a little extreme in things that do not matter. Public schools have been sued (and  lost) in cases involving dress codes, children bringing Bibles to school (they can as long as the school is not promoting it) and some cases of illegal search and seizure.

Of course some rules are there for a good reason such as not bringing weapons, drugs, and such.

In some cases there is a fine line as to what a public school can and can not dictate.  Now if you are in private school they can make up their own rules and you have to go by them or you don't go there.  

Answer 3

I've never heard of anything like this. You should consult  an attorney (free over the phone ) or the ACLU in your area ... this sounds very wrong .

Answer 4

What Rights do you believe are being taken away from you by signing that piece of paper? If it's the right to prevent illegal search and seizure, the school has every right to search your locker, because it's their property and you're just borrowing it for the year.