Although some music lyrics and television content may indicate an overall easing of censorship in U.S. society, authors, educators, young people, and all other individuals who value free access to information continue to face the threat of censorship from people who try to impose their value systems on others. While censorship can affect any type of communication (print and electronic) at any grade level, it presents a special problem in the upper elementary and middle school grades. Children at this level are developing cognitively, physically, and psychosocially. Young adolescents need to be aware of the problems caused by censorship and must support and protect intellectual freedom. This article examines the difference between censorship and intellectual freedom, identifies the most common forms of censorship, and explores the reasons that materials are currently challenged in schools. Finally, it looks at ways that educators can proactively prevent censorship and respond to censorship challenges. (Contains 3 tables.)