An employee shall be held to the same professional standards in his or her public use of electronic media as for any other public conduct. If an employee’s use of electronic media violates state or federal law or Geneva policy or interferes with the employee’s ability to effectively perform his or her job duties, the employee is subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Interacting online with colleagues, students, alumni and other community members is no different than interacting with these individuals or groups face-to-face—i.e., it requires us to maintain the respect, dignity, prudence and professionalism as reflected in all job descriptions, and concern for the safety of children in all interactions.
With specific regard to social media, a Geneva employee, must:
- Understand that he/she is accountable for postings and other electronic communications that are job-related, particularly online activities conducted with a school email address, or with school property, networks or resources.
Recognize that:
- Social media activities may be visible to current, past and prospective students; parents; colleagues; and community members;
- Serving as a role model is a critical aspect of an employee’s work at the school; and
- Accordingly, each employee must exercise appropriate discretion when using social media (even for personal communications) when those communications can impact his/her role at the school.
- Keep in mind that the uneven power dynamics of a school—in which adults have implied authority over former students—continues to shape those relationships after the end of the school day and year, and even after graduation. Employees must act in a manner that always respects and never exploits the power inherent in these relationships.
- Employees and students should refrain from creating any social media accounts on behalf of the School unless otherwise approved by the Advancement Director.
Please be aware that the school considers discretion in social media activities to be a serious matter in protecting the School. As allowed by law, violations of this policy may lead to corrective action, up to and including termination of employment.