Social Media
Purpose
The Meridian School District Board of Directors recognizes that social media offers opportunities to express creativity, share knowledge, build a sense of belonging and community and engage in ongoing conversations with colleagues, alumni, parents and the community about common interests.
The district also recognizes the importance of individual’s freedom of speech. At the same time, activity on district social media platforms can impact the school community, the community at large and in some instances may disrupt the district’s educational mission. Therefore, the district will manage and limit messages which adversely affect this mission, in compliance with the Constitution.
Before engaging on district social media platforms, the district encourages individuals to consider the impact of social media on the school community.
This policy and procedure are intended to provide guidance to staff, students and community members regarding social media use.
Definition
“Social media” means a broadly accessible, internet-based communications platform used to interact with other users and share content. Examples of social media include, but are not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, blogs and Wikis.
When posting to social media sites using district assigned electronic accounts, staff and district representatives are considered to be representing their professional identities, and such posts must relate to the district’s goal of communicating with the community regarding instructional, educational, extra-curricular, or other district-related matters.
Everything published on the school district’s social media platforms, including content posted by community members, is considered a public record subject to disclosure under the Public Records Act (RCW 42.56).
Cross References:
Board Policy 2021 – Library Media Centers
Board Policy 2022 – Electronic Resources
Board Policy 2024 – Online Learning
Board Policy 2025 – Copyright Compliance
Board Policy 2331 – Controversial Issues
Board Policy 3207 – Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying
Board Policy 3220 – Freedom of Expression
Board Policy 3240 – Student Conduct
Board Policy 4020 – Confidential Communication
Board Policy 4040 – Public Access to District Records
Board Policy 5011 – Sexual Harassment of District Staff Prohibited
Board Policy 5252 – Staff Participation in Political Activities
Board Policy 5253 – Maintaining Professional Staff/Student Boundaries
Adoption Date: May 25, 2022
Classification: Discretionary