Education looks different this school year. And our social media posts will reflect that!
But what are some best practices when it comes to the images we share?

Here’s a question recently posted on Facebook:

Hey everyone! We want to send out a communication to our social media admins at our schools as a reminder to be sensitive about what images and videos are posted this school year. For example, try to social distance in photos, and if closer than 6 feet, always wear a mask. Has anyone created a print piece related to this topic? I would love to see your ideas!”

Based on the comments that post garnered, many others wanted guidance as well. We’ve got you covered! You can download our 1-page sheet here that will explain what to look out for, plus ideas for posts – broken down by in-person and online learning.

In-Person

Guidelines:

• If masks are required, photos should include masks. Make sure both mouth and nose are covered. Encourage a thumbs up to show positivity in lieu of a visible smile.
• A photo showing just one student might be the safest to share.
• Watch the background! Questions on social distancing could create a comment storm.

Ideas:

• A short video of a student explaining something new they learned
• Students engaged in learning while observing safety guidelines
• Recess time!
• Students reading out loud – video or photo
• Students with their artwork – could be a weekly feature

Virtual

Guidelines:

• Avoid sharing pictures of video conferences that display student names.
• Incorporate photos and videos into class assignments. Teachers can ask parents to send photos or videos of their child completing an assignment. Carefully review photos before posting them, and post only with approval.
• Make sure backgrounds are appropriate. Do not post photos taken in bedrooms. Ensure the student is dressed appropriately and no siblings are in the background.

Ideas:

• Completing a science experiment
• Practicing a musical instrument
• Showcasing a completed project
• Demonstrating a new skill
• Enjoying at-home phy-ed
• Showing their favorite spot to work
• Collect learning success stories from staff and parents – could be a weekly feature

Realize that no matter how careful you are, there could still be critical comments on your school social media posts. Do your best and start with the school year with clear guidelines in place!

Please also pay close attention to sharing photos from pre-COVID-19 days… We have heard stories about schools that got blasted with negative comments after posting photos showing teachers and students giving each other high fives with no masks. Just be careful if you’re sharing photos that don’t follow social distancing or mask requirements.

I’m not saying you can’t use any of these photos on social media, but I would strongly urge you to add a note to your post that says something like, “Special note – this photo was taken on the first day of school in 2019 when social distancing and masks were not required.”

Finally, I’d like to send you off with a host of photo examples that might inspire you and your staff. These are from across the country and show that you can still celebrate your schools during the 2020/2021 school year!

This school year is going to be challenging. Are you looking for ongoing support in your social media efforts? Learn more about our online membership group that serves K12 schools across the country!