The Board of Education of Garrett County recognizes the need to provide an appropriate mechanism for informing students and parents about school and community activities and events in a manner that does not unduly burden school staff. The Board of Education notes that collaboration with the broader community is critical to the achievement of the school system’s mission and goals. Additionally, the Board of Education recognizes the importance of protecting students' free speech as required by the Supreme Court of the United States. Therefore, as a service to the community and to honor the First Amendment rights of the United States Constitution, the Board of Education allows the distribution of information to and through students. The Board also recognizes the responsibility of the school system to provide a learning environment free from disruption. In this regard, it is the intent of the Board of Education to designate appropriate materials for display and distribution and to maintain a limited public forum at specified times and places. Approval to distribute or display materials in one or more public schools does not imply that the Board or school system endorses the organization or the information it disseminates. It is the Board’s intention that the use of school time, personnel, and resources to accommodate this service be kept to a minimum, and no student shall be pressured or coerced to take or respond to the material.

Materials that are incompatible with the educational purpose of the system or that reasonably lead school officials to forecast materials and substantial disruption or interference with school activities will not be permitted. Except as otherwise set forth in Board policy and regulation, schools generally may not be used for advertising or promoting the interest of commercial, profit-making, political, or other non-school groups, individuals, or organizations (Board Policy KHC).

Distribution of Materials Procedure KHC

Distribution of Materials Request Form (revised August 8, 2023)