Supreme Court rejects appeal from Nevada student who gave religious graduation speech

Court turns down student over religious speech

WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court has rejected an appeal from a student who complained that high school officials violated her constitutional rights when they turned off her microphone during her religion-tinged graduation speech.

The justices said Monday they will not revive a lawsuit filed by Brittany McComb of Henderson, Nev. challenging the actions of Clark County school officials. A federal appeals court ruled previously ruled against her.

During McComb’s speech at the Foothill High School graduation in 2006, officials turned off McComb’s microphone when the school valedictorian strayed from an approved text to provide a graphic account of Jesus’ crucifixion and credit God for her success in school.

The case is McComb v. Crehan, 08-1566.

(This version CORRECTS by deleting an incorrect reference to a different case.)