Dear Community Member,

Over the past year, I have learned a great deal about the power of social media.  Last winter I set up a Twitter account and currently have 150 followers. I follow 12 educationally related and “Roy-Hart” specific feeds.  I believe that as a result, I have increased the awareness of educational issues to our community and been able to keep abreast of the many positive events taking place in the District.  Our school’s website continues to develop and who knows, I may one day even consider activating my District facebook page.

Like any technology or tool, social media can also be a challenge for our schools and young people.  Nearly all of the student behavior issues we experience in the High School and Middle School originate from, or are perpetuated through, the use of one or more social media platforms.  I am often asked, what can I do to help my child use social media appropriately?     

The nonprofit organization KidsHealth from Nemours has a valuable set of tools for parents, kids, teens and educators specific to being “Smart” about social media.  They recommend parents consider making a “social media agreement” with their children.  In the agreement, they agree to protect their own privacy, consider their reputation, and not give out personal information. They also promise not to use technology to hurt anyone else through bullying or gossip.  In turn, parents agree to respect teens' privacy while making an effort to be part of the social media world. This means you can "friend" and observe them, but don't post embarrassing comments or rants about messy rooms.  I encourage members of our community take some time to complete some research and be proactive with your children.

I noted that my Twitter followers have grown to around 150 people.  I am looking for some comment and feedback about my use of this technology in communicating with our school community.  Please consider dropping me an email with those items you appreciate, areas that are of no interest and how can I improve my communication as your Superintendent.

As always, I hope that you will make an effort to reach out and say hello when you see me around the schools and town, by email at hstopinski@royhart.org or follow me on Twitter @DrStopinski

Sincerely,
Dr. Hank Stopinski

Superintendent of Schools