In Search of Workable Rules for Evolving Social Media Usage by Students and Staff

From the National School Public Relations Association

Schools around the nation continue to struggle with fashioning workable rules for students and staff use of ever-changing social media. A prime illustration is on display in North Texas this week as Lewisville ISD prepares to adopt new policies on web use. The issue came to a head when teachers objected to the employee use policy saying it was restricting free speech rights and “taking on the First Amendment.” The sticking point was a couple of sentences that would prohibit employees from criticizing the district or even affiliating themselves with the school on social networking sites.

The Texas Association of School Boards, like many others around the country, is drafting new policy language that addresses how employees should use social networking sites, even on their own time and on their own computers. But the model policy isn't expected to be finalized until the fall. Meanwhile, much to the satisfaction of staff, Lewisville trustees have removed the offending sentences: “Non-instructional social networking sites should not contain references by the staff member to any affiliation with LISD. A staff member’s Web presence must reflect positively upon the district, department and/or school.” Trustees were scheduled to review the new version last night. Here are the new guidelines for LISD employees and the student guidelines.