Don’t have time for social media? You have hundreds of “reporters” in your school. They are called students! Here are 7 Ways to get them involved in telling your story (inside and outside of the classroom).

1. Develop a customized hashtag (#GoCrickets or #LakerPride) and encourage your students to use it in their social media posts. You can then search for these hashtags and repost on your school’s page. Hashtags work well in Twitter and Instagram – and even function in Facebook.

2. Get elementary teachers to have their classrooms finish this phrase “I like this school because____” and have them draw a picture. Get the free template here.  Turn these into the social media administrator and then snap a photo of each entry. These could be used daily or weekly.

3. Post a weekly question pertaining to school history or a teacher. The first person to answer it on Facebook wins a small prize (could be a piece of candy or a free sporting event ticket).

4. Get one of the high school classes to complete a video project. These could be reporting on what they are learning about in class or an upcoming invitation to a fundraiser. Remember – Smartphones make great video recordings that are usable on social media!

5. Take photos of your student’s artwork – the community loves to see the creativity!  A simple snapshot with a Smartphone is all it takes.  One trip down the hallway and you’ll have items to share for weeks.

6. Ask students to submit unique talents or things that they are proud of. They can submit by e-mail if they have an address, or turn it in to their teacher in the lower grades. Each submission should include a photo or short video. One example might be a 5-second video showing how Suzie can juggle. Another might be a photo of a scarf that Bobby knitted.

7. Create a school pride contest. Ask students to share their photos using your hashtag or offer an e-mail option. The photo includes apparel, face paint, or signs that promote school spirit. Small prizes or a drawing can be used.