Social Media Conduct

Using social media—especially platforms like Facebook—comes with responsibilities. What you post, share, or engage with can have real consequences for your professional reputation and career.

DO

Protect your privacy settings
Set your privacy controls to the highest level available for all content.
Why it matters: Anything shared online can be copied, saved, and redistributed. Even “private” content can quickly become public, potentially leading to professional consequences.

Keep all content professional and respectful
Post photos, comments, and updates that reflect good judgment.
Why it matters: Off-duty conduct can still impact your role as an educator. Inappropriate or unprofessional content may lead to disciplinary action.

DON’T

Connect with students on social media
Do not add students as “friends” or communicate with them through personal social platforms.
Why it matters: Maintaining clear professional boundaries is essential. Blurred lines can lead to misunderstandings, allegations of misconduct, or serious disciplinary consequences—including loss of certification or legal action.

Post negative comments about your workplace or colleagues
Avoid criticizing your employer, coworkers, or workplace issues online.
Why it matters: Such posts can damage professional relationships and may result in disciplinary action. Remember, online content can easily be shared beyond your intended audience.

Discuss students or parents online
Never vent about students or their families on social media.
Why it matters: Educators are required to protect student confidentiality. Breaching this trust can lead to serious consequences.

Use social media during instructional time
Do not access or post on personal accounts while teaching or supervising students.
Why it matters: Personal use of social media during work hours may be considered neglect of professional duties and could result in discipline.

A Simple Rule of Thumb

If you wouldn’t be comfortable with your employer, a parent, or a student seeing it—don’t post it.