Former faculty advisor to Omaha’s Westside High School newspaper. He resigned rather than follow orders of the school board to spike a student’s article because the school board disagreed with the student’s political position.

Many former students have reached out since I resigned last week asking what they can do. My answer to all of you: do what you do! Create professional, high quality, challenging journalism that holds power accountable. Do that for the rest of your life: our democracy needs you.

— JerredZ (@JerredZ) February 18, 2021

(edited to put in correct tweet)

As a result of his resignation, State Senator Adam Morfeld (D-Legislative District 46, part of Lincoln) introduced Legislative Bill 88 (PDF), which would prohibit school boards or other officials from restricting the freedom of speech or press of students over political opinions (with limited exceptions, such as illegal content). The bill covers all press output (traditional newspapers or newsletters, school blogs, radio and television, &c).

Lining up against it: Republican-controlled school boards. In favour: Democratic-controlled school boards, students, and parents.