Social media is defined as any form of online publication or presence that allows end users to engage in multi-directional conversations in or around the content on the website. A large percentage of Internet traffic is centered around the use of social media. Social media includes: Facebook, MySpace, Ning, Twitter, Second Life, YouTube, blogs, wikis, social bookmarking, document sharing and email.
How you represent yourself online is an extension of yourself. Do not misrepresent yourself by using someone else's identity or misrepresenting your identity. Be honest about who you are, where you work and what you do.
Always a School Employee
The lines between public and private, personal and professional are blurred in the digital world. Even when you have a disclaimer or use a different user name, you will always be considered to be a district employee. Whether it is clearly communicated or not, you will be identified as working for and sometimes representing the school in what you do and say online. Always write in the first person and make it clear that you are speaking for yourself and not on behalf of the district.
Use a Disclaimer
Include a disclaimer on your social media site which says something like this: “The opinions and positions expressed on this site are my own and do not necessarily reflect my school district’s positions, strategies, or opinions.” This standard disclaimer does not exempt employees from their responsibilities as explained in these guidelines. If asked by media to comment on a school related issue, refer them to the correct department or person in the district or when in doubt, to the principal or superintendent. School Values
Represent the district values. Express ideas and opinions in a respectful manner. All communications should be done in good taste. Build trust and responsibility in your relationships. Do not denigrate or insult others including students, staff, administrators, parents, or other districts. Don't use ethnic slurs, innuendos, obscenity or any other inappropriate content. Even though you are of legal age, consider carefully what you post through comments and photos. There are school districts who have taken disciplinary action on staff that made posts relative to alcohol and sexual activities.
Build Community/Positively Represent School
Represent the district and the students and parents you serve in the best light. Respect the privacy and the feelings of others. Under no circumstance should offensive comments be made about students or colleagues (including administrators) nor the district in general. Negative comments about people may amount to cyber-bullying and could be deemed a disciplinary offence. Your posts and comments should help build and support the school community. Do not comment on nor forward unsupported information, e.g. rumors. You are responsible for what you post, be certain it is accurate and supports your organization. If you are about to publish something that makes you hesitate, wait a day, review the guidelines and talk to a colleague or supervisor. Once posted you can’t take it back.
Share your Expertise
Write what you know and be accurate. Add value to the discussion. Post something useful. Provide worthwhile information and perspective. A district’s most valuable asset is its staff represented by its people and what you publish may reflect on the school. Speak in the first person with your own voice and perspective.
Respect and Responsible
Employees, parents, and students reflect a diverse set of customs, values and points of view. Be respectful for the opinions of others in your posts or comments. You are responsible for the content you post. Consider the words used to tag content in a social bookmarking site. Consider the avatar you select. Do your tags, descriptions, and your image portray you in a professional manner?
Own and Correct Mistakes
If you make a mistake, admit the mistake and correct it quickly. Clearly state if you’ve corrected a previous post. Even though damage may be done, it is best to admit your mistake and correct it. Apologize if appropriate.
Confidential Information
Online postings and conversations are not private. Do not share confidential information whether it is internal school discussions or specific information about students or other staff. What you post will be seen by others and will be online for a long time. It can be forwarded or shared in just a few clicks. Do not write about colleague or student without their permission.
