This paper discusses the legal aspects of public school students' First Amendment free speech rights in the school setting. Tinker v. Des Moines School District, the most notable court decision upholding free speech rights, is used as a basis for discussion throughout. The paper reviews the current legal status of students' free speech rights as seen in post-Tinker Vietnam-related cases and race-related cases. Also discussed are students' rights to receive information and to refuse to participate in the flag salute. One section details problems involved with prohibiting the wearing of T-shirts with messages. The paper concludes that schools can prohibit the wearing of buttons and other emblems and insignia, picketing, the wearing of message-bearing clothing, and any speech that promotes diversion, disruption, or interference with the normal operation of the school. However, serious constitutional problems arise when schools limit rights protected by the First Amendment, such as freedom of expression and the communication of ideas. Decisions must be made on a case-by-case basis. (Author/LD)