Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) has issued a reminder to employees about maintaining professionalism and integrity when using social media and other online platforms.
The message emphasized that while social media can be an effective tool for engaging with students, families, and the community, staff are expected to uphold the same standards online as they do in schools and workplaces.
The district pointed staff toward its Social Media Best Practices for Employees, which provides guidance on appropriate online engagement. MCPS noted that posts made on personal or professional accounts can impact the school system’s image and how employees are perceived by students, parents, and the broader community.
“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,” the reminder stated, citing the MCPS Employee Code of Conduct.
Officials also highlighted Montgomery County’s diversity, noting that the school system’s staff and students represent many cultures and belief systems. As a result, they said, online activity that might seem personal can still have professional consequences.
The reminder encourages staff to use integrity and professionalism in all online interactions and to be mindful of how their posts may be received by the community they serve.
