No diplomas in LAUSD for students who protested; isn't this a violation of free student speech?

15 LA students denied diplomas after protest
06/23/2009
AP

The Los Angeles Unified School District says 15 students were denied diplomas at their eighth-grade graduation because they protested impending teacher layoffs.

The students at Liechty Middle School in East Los Angeles turned their backs on school board President Monica Garcia during Thursday's ceremonies.

A district statement says students are expected to act respectfully and the youngsters won't get diplomas until they and their parents meet with school officials to discuss appropriate behavior.

The district says an apology isn't required - just a meeting.

But Carlos Montes, an activist working with the parents, says some children got diplomas Monday after signing apologies the school provided.

Parents plan to protest to the school board.