This Teacher’s Ban on ‘Cringe’ Words Is Going Viral—But Is It Legal?

A teacher in Iowa has sparked debate by banning a list of words and phrases in her classroom- Could this be something Texas teacher’s would follow?

Freedom of speech is something we all were taught about in grade school. You have a right to say what you feel… unless you're in this Iowa social studies teacher’s class that is.

Yup. Students will have to serve detention if they are caught using any of the “banned” words on this teacher’s list which strangely enough, also includes sound effects.

The banned words include a lot of words that teens have given new meaning to

I have a teenage son and whenever his friends are over, they use a lot of the words on this list at least 10 times the whole day, so in a way, I understand why this teacher is banning some words because they can be a disruption during class, but you be the judge.

The banned words include: 

• “Ohio” (used as slang for cringe)
• Pretty much any word that has to do with Rapper P. Diddy
• Alpha
• Beta
• Omega
• Sigma
• Brainrot
• Rizz(ler)
• Chat
• Giggachat

And then the following sound effects are also banned:

• Barking
• Meowing
• “womp womp” 

Even historical references to Nazis and the Holocaust. This teacher’s approach has drawn backlash, with some calling it a violation of free speech rights.  

Students who break the rule face detention, and at least 10 have reportedly been punished, according to an online article. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) is stepping in, arguing that the policy clashes with the First Amendment. “Students don’t shed their rights when they walk into school,” says Aaron Terr, FIRE’s public advocacy director.  

Critics say the rule undermines social studies’ mission to teach civics and history

Banning words, they argue, sends the wrong message about free speech. The Supreme Court has ruled that public schools play a crucial role in nurturing democracy, and restricting speech without valid reasons could infringe on students’ rights.  

Supporters might argue that the teacher is simply trying to prevent disruptions, but experts note that a blanket ban on words—without considering context—is excessive.  

So, Texas teachers, would you ever consider adopting a similar rule?

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