Social Media
Unfortunately, today is the third Monday in a row where we have had to spend time sorting out issues that have happened online during the weekend. While these issues have occurred on the Snapchat platform, I am well aware that our students are on many different social media platforms.
Today, I have sent an email out to all of our students to remind them of their responsibility when using social media platforms. While these platforms are an awesome way to connect with your friends, they can be very harmful when used inappropriately. The flow-on effect from these negative interactions filters through to school. and in turn, affects their learning and safety.
The school has high expectations for student behaviour, and our online expectations are exactly the same. This means students will respect the rights, privacy, and safety of others at all times and use language and behaviour which meets our high expectations.
At O.I.S. we strongly discourage students from being in class group chats or groups chats that involve a number of students especially students that you don’t know or wouldn’t talk to face to face.
At O.I.S we are IDEAL students both at school and in the community;
Make good choices around your social media use.
Think about the language you’re using and the message that you are giving to others. Threatening others is never ok.
Stand up for what you believe and know is right.
Do not be afraid to leave group chats and/or get adults involved if someone is being unkind or unpleasant online, also think about who you are adding to the group.
It is also important that you think before you push send.
You must ask permission to publish another person’s picture and do not take photos at school and use these on any social media platforms.
Do not make group chat groups and add a number of people to them as these can very quickly get out of hand.
Never share your password or allow anyone else to use your account.
Don’t allow others to use your phone or digital device.
As you will be aware, most of the social media platforms that our students are on have age restrictions. The minimum sign-up age for Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter (X), TikTok, and YouTube is 13 years. This is because a child’s social and emotional capability is still developing, which can make it more difficult to identify and manage challenges that occur on a platform designed for adults and teens.
Unfortunately, we are limited in what we can do when students are not behaving appropriately online outside of school time. If your child is receiving threatening or unsafe messages, then it is important that you report it to the appropriate organisation ie. social media platforms, or the police.
Social media can be a great thing when used correctly, with good intentions, and in a safe environment. Please remember to be kind and teach your kids about being kind when commenting or posting on social media – remember two of our values: Engaging with mana, and Acting with respect.
Parent links
Social media advice for parents on NetSafe.
Online Safety Parent Toolkit on Netsafe.
To learn more about Family Zone, please visit their website.
It is our responsibility as parents/caregivers to ensure that our children are kept safe. Please, if your child is using any social media platforms and YouTube, this is the time to have a conversation with them about online safety and ensure you discuss security settings with them.