Victory for Math Professor in Free Speech Case Against College Standards

A tenured math professor has achieved a significant victory in a free speech case after alleging that he faced retaliation for criticizing lowered academic standards at Truckee Meadows Community College in Reno, Nevada.

Lars Jensen filed a lawsuit in January 2022, claiming he was subjected to reprimands and a potential termination hearing due to his outspoken concerns regarding a curriculum policy change that impacted the standards in the college’s math department.

Initially, Jensen’s case was dismissed by a district court in 2023. However, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit issued a ruling on Monday that reversed this decision, allowing Jensen’s case to proceed. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression announced the news, indicating a step forward for academic freedom and the protection of speech.

The Case’s Background and Developments

In its ruling, the Ninth Circuit determined that the district court had erred in dismissing Jensen’s claims of First Amendment retaliation. Circuit Judge Berzon highlighted that Jensen had not sufficiently articulated due process and equal protection claims, yet criticized the district court for denying him the opportunity to amend his complaint. As a result, the case will now return to the lower court for further consideration.

Jensen’s legal complaint outlines his experience at a