L.A. Unified principals given guidance on student free speech rights [LA Times, 8/20/14]: As unrest continues in Ferguson, Mo. and, to a degree in Los Angeles, after the fatal police shootings of unarmed black men in those cities, Los Angeles schools chief John Deasy asked principals Tuesday to be vigilant in their efforts to provide an environment for students to exercise their 1st Amendment rights while also maintaining the safety of students and staff.

http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-deasy-lausd-speech-20140819-story.html?track=rss

Bill would block expulsion for 'willful defiance' [AP, 8/20/14]:  The state Senate approved legislation Tuesday that would prevent California schools from expelling students for willfully defying school authorities, a punishment that activists say is unevenly applied and disproportionately affects minority students.

http://www.sacbee.com/2014/08/19/6639871/bill-would-block-expulsion-for.html