With increased concerns over school security, public schools implementing state laws may find themselves running afoul of constitutional rights of students. This increasingly draws attorneys general into the fray. Social media use by students raises important questions as to whether or to what extent public schools may discipline students for threats posted on social media. The first in a two-part series.

Advising public officials on the use and misuse of social media must take into account constituents' First Amendment right to access and comment. Determining whether a social media post is "official" or "personal," determining how officials can limit comments, and learning platforms' methodology for limiting contacts are essential components to determine how this new "public space" for discussion can be regulated.