When preparing to share content on social media, consider what information would be most beneficial for your members and which communication methods will be most efficient. To ensure inclusive outreach, utilize various communication channels, recognizing that not all communities have equal access to technology. Additionally, be mindful of cultural and language variations, translating materials as necessary. Local PTA Units are encouraged to establish an online presence via social media and other digital platforms.

All PTA social media posts must adhere to principles of respect, truthfulness, discretion, and responsibility. These posts should remain non-commercial, non-sectarian, and non-partisan in line with PTA policies.

The primary objective is to raise awareness, encourage participation, and boost PTA membership. Social media accounts must clearly include either "PTA/PTSA" or "Parent Teacher Association" to distinguish them from the school. Content must adhere to all school and school board rules, guidelines, and policies. The school’s social media accounts may not include PTA in their name. The principal is responsible for the accuracy of school information and compliance with the State Education Code and school district policy, while the PTA president is responsible for the accuracy of PTA information and compliance with PTA policies.

Social Media platforms provide an interactive means for PTAs to connect with both current and potential members. Through these channels, PTAs can share information, photos, and videos to enhance membership, communication, fundraising, visibility, feedback collection, and networking. Use social media to educate, remind, and acknowledge members. Continuously monitor your platforms and provide credit to original content creators when drawing inspiration. When using ideas from others, include links to the source and the author's name and organization. Maintain professionalism and respect in both content and comments. Consistency with PTA brand guidelines across platforms is essential.

Account Administrators: PTA Executive Committee or Board Members must oversee social media accounts with a minimum of two administrators per account. The PTA retains authority over these accounts, and local PTA Units must maintain a cooperative relationship with their school principals, informing them of any online accounts. At the end of the officers’ terms, they must immediately turn over Social Media accounts to the new Board.

Select PTA representatives willing and capable of creating high-quality basic social media posts. While constructive disagreements can stimulate ideas, refrain from personal attacks. Promptly address inappropriate messages or misuse of the PTA brand. Be prepared to respond to negative or inaccurate posts, when necessary, but remember that not all negative comments warrant a response.

Balancing personal and professional life on social media can be challenging. To avoid confusion, establish clear guidelines for volunteers, ensuring they understand expectations. When volunteers communicate on social media without representing the PTA, they should use a disclaimer to clarify that their statements reflect their own views. If an individual speaks on behalf of the PTA, this should also be clearly stated.

Privacy and Permission: PTAs should refrain from posting photographs or images of volunteers, families, children, etc., on social media without obtaining their explicit consent. Secure written consent forms at events or at the start of the school year, granting the rights to use and share pictures. Prioritize and exercise caution with child and family privacy. Avoid discussing situations on social media that could identify individuals. When sharing content from other sources, assume it is copyrighted and provide proper source citation or link to the original material. Ask the insurance company about additional coverage for Media Liability to address online liability issues.

• Adhere to PTA policies regarding noncommercial, nonpartisan, and nonsectarian content.

• Use the PTA logo in all communications and state when someone is speaking on behalf of the PTA.

• Create visually interesting communications with careful use of photographs, bullets, quotes, and graphics.

• Posts should be PTA-related such as flyers, events, grants, PTA and school deadlines, and other information valuable to PTA members. Keep the message brief and to the point with current information.

• Have at least two administrators for each. Have 2 or 3 people proofread before posting.

• Do not include photographs of or specific information about adults or students without written permission.

• Abide by copyright laws and republish articles and art in an ethical manner.