AP Government students explore student rights of free speech through interview

Recently, Hampton Roads Academy AP Government students had the unique opportunity of engaging with noted attorney Douglas K. Mertz in a teleconference.
Mr. Mertz, brother of HRA Headmaster Peter W. Mertz, was the lead attorney for Juneau, Alaska High School student Joe Frederick in the case of Morse v. Frederick, argued before the United States Supreme Court in 2007. The case became famous and was important for articulating legal doctrine surrounding student rights of free speech and the power of school administrators to regulate student speech.

HRA AP Government students spent several days studying the case briefs, listening to oral argument, and debating the merits of both sides’ arguments. Mr. Douglas K. Mertz discussed his involvement in the case, his preparation and the experience of arguing before the nine Supreme Court justices. He graciously answered a number of detailed questions from students during the thirty minute video conference.
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