Dorchester Academy Social Media Policy for Parents and Stakeholders

Purpose:   Dorchester Academy recognizes the importance of social media as a tool for communication and engagement within our school community. This policy aims to provide guidelines to ensure the use of social media by parents and stakeholders is responsible, respectful, and in alignment with our school values and mission.

• Scope:  This policy applies to all parents, guardians, and stakeholders of Dorchester Academy who engage in social media activities that relate to the school.

General Guidelines: 

Respect and Courtesy

• Always communicate respectfully and courteously about the school, staff, students, and other parents.
• Avoid posting any content that could be perceived as bullying, harassing, discriminatory, or defamatory.

Privacy

• Respect the privacy of students, staff, and other parents. Do not post personal information, photos, or videos of students or staff without explicit permission.
• Confidential information about the school, students, or staff should never be shared publicly.

Positive Engagement

• Use social media to positively support the school and its community. Constructive feedback should be directed through appropriate channels rather than public forums.

Accuracy

• Ensure that any information shared about the school is accurate and factual. Do not spread rumors or misinformation.
  

Specific Guidelines:

Photos and Videos

• Only post photos or videos of school events if you have received permission from those appearing in them, and ensure the content is appropriate. 
• Avoid sharing images of students other than your own without parental consent. 

Commenting and Sharing

• Be mindful of the impact of your comments and shares. Avoid engaging in or spreading negative or contentious discussions about the school online.

• Encourage positive dialogue and refrain from participating in or endorsing inflammatory discussions. 

Representation

• Remember that your social media activity reflects on the school community. Act in a manner that upholds the school's reputation and values.
• Do not imply that you are speaking on behalf of the school unless you have been authorized to do so.

Conflicts and Issues

• Address any school-related conflicts or issues through proper school channels rather than on social media. Contact teachers, administrators, or the school office for resolution.

Monitoring and Enforcement:  

Monitoring

• Dorchester Academy may monitor social media activity to ensure compliance with this policy. However, the school respects individuals' rights to privacy in their personal social media use. 

Enforcement

• Violations of this policy may result in appropriate actions, including but not limited to, requests to remove content, discussions with school administrators, or in serious cases, involvement of legal authorities.

Policy Updates

Dorchester Academy reserves the right to update this policy as needed. Parents and stakeholders will be notified of significant changes.

Acknowledgment

By engaging with Dorchester Academy on social media, you acknowledge and agree to adhere to this Social Media Policy. For questions or further information regarding this policy, please contact the school administration.

By having a clear and respectful social media policy, we can ensure that our school community remains a supportive and positive environment for everyone. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Acknowledgment of Receipt and Understanding

I, the undersigned, acknowledge that I have received and read a copy of the Social Media Policy. I understand the contents of the policy and agree to adhere to its guidelines.

Return this form to your child's homeroom teacher or submit electronically.