In what case did the U.S. Supreme Court rule that school officials may search students if it is reasonable under the circumstances?

The U.S. Supreme Court case that established the standard for searches of students by school officials is New Jersey v. T.L.O. This case involved a high school student who was caught smoking in the restroom, and school officials subsequently conducted a search of her bag. The Court ruled that while students do have some Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures, those rights are balanced against the need for maintaining a safe and orderly school environment.

The ruling determined that school officials can conduct searches of students if they have reasonable suspicion that a student is violating either the law or school rules. The Court emphasized the need for a lower standard of suspicion in school settings compared to ordinary law enforcement searches, recognizing the unique context of schools. This decision affirmed that the safety and discipline in schools take precedent, allowing school officials to take necessary actions to ensure these conditions, provided there is a justified reason behind the search.