MCPS Chief Operating Officer Brian Hull has sent a an e-mail to MCPS staff members this past week regarding increased scrutiny/attention on social media activity by MCPS staff. The e-mail states that there has been in increase of staff accounts being reported that the district has “an obligation to follow up on.” This comes a few weeks after a was sent a few weeks back regarding social media engagement by staff. The full e-mail from this week can be seen below:
“Dear Colleagues,
As you may be aware, there has been increased scrutiny and attention on social media activity by MCPS staff – including on private accounts. There has also been an increase of staff accounts being reported which we as a district have an obligation to follow up on. As we approach winter break, let’s pause for a moment to remember two basic online principles: Social media activities may attract public attention, and nothing online is truly private.
As a member of the exceptional MCPS workforce, your daily interactions extend to students, parents/guardians, colleagues, and the community. Even in your private lives and when on social media, it’s essential to align with our school system’s values, uphold professionalism, and preserve your ability to serve the Montgomery County community.
Avoid assuming anonymity online, as the line between professional and personal is often blurred in the digital realm. As we shared in our December 4 email, and as stated in theSocial Media Best Practices for Employees and theMCPS Employee Code of Conduct, we are all expected to interact with the MCPS community with integrity and professionalism. Specifically, the Employee Code of Conduct states, “Conduct your private life activities (including social media activities) in a manner that is not prejudicial to your effectiveness as an MCPS employee and recognize that criminal, dishonest, and other inappropriate activities may have an adverse impact on your employment with MCPS.”Employees should not post social media content that violates Board policy or MCPS regulations because such conduct may be subject to progressive discipline.
Use this time to take care of yourselves and reflect on the positive impact you have on the lives of the children we serve.
Related Resources
Policy ACA, Non-Discrimination, Equity, and Cultural Proficiency
Policy JHF, Bullying, Harassment and Intimidation.
Policy ACH: Workplace Bullying
Sincerely,
M. Brian Hull
Chief Operating Officer”