Judge Says Peoria School Board Member’s Free Speech Claim Doesn’t Hold Water

An Arizona federal judge ruled that Peoria's school board didn't violate Heather Rooks's free speech rights when they attempted to shut down her scripture readings. It left the question open on if she's violating the constitution.

Heather Rooks at the Peoria School Board meeting, with a placard displaying her name and title as Clerk.
A federal judge said Heather Rooks did not have legal standing to file a case. That isn't stopping her from continuing to cite scripture during public meetings. (Peoria Unified School District)

Federal Judge Dismisses Heather Rooks’ Lawsuit

A federal judge in Arizona ruled last week that a teacher who sued the Peoria Unified School District, claiming it violated her free speech rights by preventing her from reciting scripture during governing board meetings, lacked standing to bring the claim.

The decision is not a complete victory for those who were wanting more concrete answers on if Heather Rooks, a Peoria Unified Governing School Board Member, violated the state and federal constitution—specifically the Establishment Clause. Instead, the case was dismissed based on whether or not Rooks had a viable injury to make the claim in the first place.

Without that decisive judgement, the lawyers representing Rooks have said that while they appeal the decision, she'll continue using her position to recite scripture during public meetings.

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