Which right is guaranteed to teachers under the First Amendment?

The right to academic freedom of expression is guaranteed to teachers under the First Amendment as it encompasses their ability to express ideas, engage in discussions, and share knowledge within an educational setting without undue restraint from government authorities. This principle supports educators in their role as facilitators of learning and encourages them to introduce diverse viewpoints and critical thinking in the classroom.

Academic freedom is crucial for maintaining an environment where students can explore various perspectives and develop their own beliefs and understandings. Teachers, as professionals, rely on this freedom to teach current theories and practices that may challenge the status quo while nurturing students’ intellectual growth.

While the other choices relate to important aspects of teachers' rights and professional responsibilities, they do not fall directly under the protections of the First Amendment. For example, the right to unionize and negotiate contracts are linked to labor laws, and the right to strike pertains to collective bargaining agreements, both of which may be governed by separate legal frameworks outside of First Amendment protections.