Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
Region VI – Western Visayas
Schools Division of Iloilo
Schools District of Sara
S.Y. 2024 – 2025
SARA FUNDAMENTAL BAPTIST ACADEMY, INC
SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
I. Introduction
The use of social media platforms provides significant opportunities for Sara Fundamental Baptist Academy,
Inc. to connect, communicate, and engage with various stakeholders. It also supports teaching, learning, and the
holistic development of students. However, the misuse of social media may lead to risks, including reputational
harm to students and the school. This social media Policy aims to maximize the benefits of social media use
while mitigating associated risks.
This policy provides guidelines for students on safe and productive use of social media and outlines
responsibilities and expectations in using both school-related and personal social media accounts. While
respecting freedom of expression, the policy establishes clear boundaries to ensure that social media use aligns
with the school’s values.
II. Objectives
1. To inform students about the school’s requirements and expectations regarding social media use.
2. To educate students about the risks of social media and ways to mitigate them.
3. To safeguard the privacy and safety of students.
4. To prevent the compromise of personal and school information assets.
5. To define students’ responsibilities when using the school’s social media accounts.
6. To provide channels for addressing social media-related concerns.
III. Definition of Terms
1. Social media: Websites and applications that allow users to create, share content, and engage in social
networking. Examples include:
o
Social Networking: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok
o
Messaging: Messenger, WhatsApp, Viber, Telegram
o
Streaming: YouTube, Twitch, Streamnow
o
Others: LinkedIn, Quora, Reddit, Discord
2. Libel: Malicious publication of false statements causing harm to another’s reputation.
3. Cyberbullying: Harassment or bullying conducted through electronic means.
4. Confidential Information: Data considered private or sensitive, including personal information,
academic records, and school-related matters.
5. Official Social Media Accounts: Accounts registered and approved by the school for official use.
IV. Scope
This policy applies to social media activities conducted by [School Name] students, including posts made on
public and private platforms. Students are reminded that even private posts can become public if shared by
others.
V. Guidelines
1. Appropriate Use of Social Media:
a. Students must adhere to school values and ethics when posting on any platform.
b. Avoid posting content that may harm the reputation of the student, others, or the school.
c. Report grievances or complaints through proper school channels instead of social media.
2. Prohibited Content:
a. Libelous or defamatory statements.
b. Harassing or bullying content.
c. Intellectual property violations (e.g., plagiarism).
d. Unauthorized disclosure of private or sensitive information.
e. Inappropriate language, images, or videos.
3. Responsibilities in Using Official Social Media Accounts:
a. Obtain school approval before creating official accounts for clubs or programs.
b. Ensure posts align with the school’s style guide and values.
c. Moderators must regularly monitor and update accounts.
4. Privacy and Security:
a. Use strong passwords for social media accounts.
b. Protect personal and school-related information from unauthorized disclosure.
c. Report any hacked or compromised accounts immediately to the school’s technology office.
5. Emergency Use of Social Media:
a. Official announcements during emergencies will only be made through the school’s verified
accounts.
b. Students must refrain from posting unverified or conflicting information during emergencies.
6. Disciplinary Measures:
a. Misuse of social media, including serious breaches outlined in this policy, will be subject to
disciplinary actions as per the school’s Code of Conduct.
VI. Channels for Addressing Concerns
1. Concerns related to social media use can be raised through the following:

Teachers or class advisers

Guidance counselors

School administrators
2. Serious issues may be escalated to the school’s disciplinary board for appropriate resolution.
VII. References
1. Republic Act No. 8293 – Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines
2. Republic Act No. 10173 – Data Privacy Act of 2012
3. Republic Act No. 10175 – Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012
4. Revised Penal Code of the Philippines (Art. 353 on Libel)
VIII. Approval
Approved by:
DESSERY B. ACEBUQUE
Teacher-In-Charge