What are the limits of free speech for schoolchildren?

Question

My sister was once suspended for calling her principal a "b*tch" on a public messageboard (from our home computer). If my sister was suspended for saying that, could someone be suspended for saying that her principal "dresses like a tramp" (which is true) on a message board or stating that her "skirts barely cover her a*s" or that she's "fat and ugly". What distinguishes a genuine and legitimate criticism or insult from one which isn't legitimate.

We're Canadian, by the way, so our rights are prescribed by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

Answer 1

If your principal was saying true but unkind things about you on a message board, you might be entitled to damages, so why wouldn't it work the other way around?

Since you mention the Charter, you're probably aware that freedom of expression means that you won't get thrown in jail for talking about your principal -- but if you undermine her authority and damage her professional reputation, she can expel you.

The fact that it's online makes no difference. You're held to the same standards whether you say something to their face or behind their backs.

Answer 2

Here in America most schools have a code of conduct - that requires them to be respectful to teachers and other students.  They basically can say whatever they want, but they can be expelled for an offense like the one you mentioned.  It's up to the school authorities.  

Students are not protected by free speech in so far as they can be punished for whatever they do against the code of conduct.

Think of it this way.  You can call your boss a b**** - you have that right and are protected under free speech.  That doesn't mean she has to put up with it - she has the right to fire you if she wants.

Free speech doesn't mean you can do and say whatever you want without consequences - it just means you can say what you want without going to jail.