Mastering Social Media for Schools

1. Meet Emily DeBaker. She has a unique role as chief of staff at Racine Unified, where she supports district leaders, advises the superintendent, and brings a communication lens to big decisions before they reach staff, families, or the community.
2. You’ll hear why getting involved in a professional development association like WSPRA (Wisconsin School Public Relations Association) can be a game-changer, especially for school communicators who often feel like they are figuring things out on their own.
3. Emily explains how WSPRA has grown into more than just conferences, offering resources, networking, webinars, leadership opportunities, and a generous community of people who are always willing to share what works.
4. Andrea and Emily also talk about the heart of great school social media: telling real, authentic stories consistently so your community sees the amazing things happening inside your schools.

SPECIAL GUEST

Emily DeBaker

Chief of Staff

Racine Unified School District, Wisconsin

Email: [email protected] 

X: https://x.com/EmilyinWI 

Website: https://www.rusd.org 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/racineunified 

USEFUL INFORMATION

• Sign up here for our Summer Book Club. We start on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 11 am CDT.
• Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!
• Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/

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Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools!

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www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

1. Meet Jeanise Dimitri. She has spent 18 years at Middle Bucks Institute of Technology, and today she’s sharing how a student influencer initiative became one of the most exciting and impactful projects of her career.
2. You’ll hear how Jeanise went from struggling to gather content from staff to receiving more than 70 student applications for a program designed to help tell authentic stories from inside the classroom.
3. Jeanise breaks down the structure behind the initiative, including student applications, interviews, training, Google Classroom communication, and the four ways students can contribute through social media, tours, presentations, and events.
4. This episode will inspire you to think differently about student-created content, staff buy-in, and the power of trusting students to help showcase the real learning happening in your schools.

SPECIAL GUEST

Jeanise Dimitri

Community Engagement and Public Relations Coordinator

Middle Bucks Institute of Technology, Pennsylvania

Email: [email protected] 

Website: https://www.mbit.org/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MiddleBucksInstituteTech 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middle_bucks/ 

X: https://x.com/middlebucks 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/middle-bucks-institute-of-technology/ 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@midbuckstech 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@middle_bucks 

USEFUL INFORMATION

• Jeanise’s Student Influencer Tool Kit - including the application, promotional posters, interview rubric, student agreement, checklists, and more!
• Sign up here for our Summer Book Club. We start on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 11 am CDT.
• Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!
• Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/

MORE RESOURCES

Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools!

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www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

1. Andrea Joseph shares why some of the best school photos happen when you slow down, stay quiet, and let the moment come to you. Her idea of “curated spontaneity” is something every school storyteller will want to try.
2. You’ll hear simple but powerful photography tips to help you capture more authentic images at school, from watching the full frame to finding cleaner backgrounds and better angles.
3. Andrea also gives great advice on how schools can make the most of a professional photo day, including how to plan ahead, work with teachers, and capture the moments that tell your school’s story best.
4. There’s also a really honest side conversation about going out on your own, and it’s one that will definitely resonate if you’ve ever wondered whether your photography or video side work could become something more.

SPECIAL GUEST

Andrea Joseph

Principal Photographer

Andrea Joseph Photography, Maryland

Email: [email protected] 

Website: https://www.andreajoseph.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreajosephphoto/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-joseph-80883516/ 

USEFUL INFORMATION

• Free download of tips for taking photos in the classroom
• Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!
• Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/

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Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools!

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www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

1. Jennifer Bode breaks down the exact fundraising formulas her small school uses to consistently run a high-impact gala.
2. There’s a simple way to structure your auction (hint: fewer items = better results) that can instantly improve your fundraiser.
3. Stop wasting time on ineffective promotion - learn which social media tactics actually drive attendance and engagement.
4. Walk away with practical, doable ideas to promote your event, involve students, and make your next fundraiser more successful.

SPECIAL GUEST

Jennifer Bode

Mission Advancement Assistant & Communications

Arizona Lutheran Academy, Arizona

Email: [email protected] 

Website: https://ALAcoyotes.org 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArizonaLutheranAcademy 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arizonalutheran/ 

X: https://x.com/ArizonaLutheran 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArizonaLutheranAcademy   

USEFUL INFORMATION

• Come to our retreat! Only a few spots remain. Register here for the Social Media for Schools Retreat!
• 2026 Game Show Gala Promo video (created in Canva)
• 2026 Game Show Gala recap video (created by a student intern)
• 2024 Boots & Bling recap video (created by a student)
• Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!
• Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/

MORE RESOURCES

Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools!

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www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

1. In this deeply personal episode, Andrea is joined by her husband, Bill Gribble, to share both sides of her journey through anxiety and depression - and his perspective is such an important reminder that loved ones need support and guidance, too.
2. Andrea opens up about what anxiety and depression really felt like behind the scenes, even while life looked “fine” on the outside. It is an honest look at how heavy and confusing mental health struggles can be, especially for high achievers who are used to showing up no matter what.
3. You’ll hear the many things Andrea tried in her fight to feel better - from therapy, faith, journaling, exercise, nutrition, and supplements to ultimately deciding to use medication again.
4. Bill shares practical encouragement for anyone walking alongside a spouse or loved one through anxiety or depression, including the importance of patience, reassurance, and taking care of your own well-being so you can keep showing up for them.

Email: [email protected]  

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreagribble/  

Website: www.socialschool4edu.com   

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/socialschool4edu   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialschool4edu/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SocialSchool4EDU 

USEFUL INFORMATION

• If you or a loved one needs immediate support, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
• The Cortina Method - Learn more at Kate’s website
• 10 Practical Tips to Avoid Burnout in #SchoolPR
• You’re invited to our Social Media for Schools Retreat - Learn more here.
• Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!
• Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/

MORE RESOURCES

Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools!

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www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

1. Dan O’Brien shares how NESPRA supports school communicators through professional development, networking, and practical training for today’s school PR challenges.
2. Learn how Worcester Public Schools responded to an OCR accessibility complaint and used the experience to strengthen communication practices across the district.
3. This episode explores why accessibility in school communications matters, from website compliance to inclusive content that better serves families and staff.
4. You’ll also hear how this district of 25,000 students approaches school PR and social media strategy to help Worcester build trust, improve perception, and highlight positive stories every day.

SPECIAL GUEST

Dan O'Brien

Chief Communications Officer of the Worcester Public Schools & President of the New England School Public Relations Association

Massachusetts

Email: [email protected] 

LinkedIn: Dan O’Brien

Website: https://worcesterschools.org 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worcesterschools 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/worcesterschools 

X: https://x.com/worcesterpublic

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/worcester-public-schools/ 

USEFUL INFORMATION

• Find out more about the upcoming conference on May 8, 2026 at www.ne-spra.org 
• Click here for the Accessibility Webinar On Demand
• Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!
• Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/

MORE RESOURCES

Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools!

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www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

1. Today’s guest brings such a practical perspective for women in school leadership, especially when it comes to speaking up about your strengths, advocating for your work, and building confidence in a way that feels authentic.
2. If burnout has been creeping in, this episode will really hit home. Rebecca unpacks how unclear roles, weak boundaries, and always saying yes can quietly push high-achievers past their limit.
3. One of the most powerful ideas in this conversation is to treat self-advocacy as a strategic communications plan. You’ll hear how to track your accomplishments, connect them to goals, and share them at the right time.
4. This episode is a great reminder that leadership is not about doing everything yourself. Rebecca shares how setting boundaries, saying no more intentionally, and focusing on what actually moves the work forward can change everything.

SPECIAL GUEST

Rebecca Malotke-Meslin

Leadership Coach & Speaker

Pleasantly Aggressive, Illinois

Email: [email protected] 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malotke-meslin/  

Website: https://www.pleasantlyaggressive.com/ 

Facebook: https://facebook.com/pleasantlyaggressive 

Instagram: https://instagram.com/pleasantlyaggressive 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pleasantlyaggressive 

USEFUL INFORMATION

• Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!
• Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/

MORE RESOURCES

Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools!

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www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

1. Elissa Dickey shares how she grew Aberdeen Public Schools’ presence from just 36 followers to nearly 2,000 by telling positive stories, building trust across the district, and staying consistent. Her journey is such a good reminder that growth does not happen overnight, but it does happen when you keep showing up.
2. This episode will encourage any one-person school comms shop that feels stretched thin. Elissa talks through how she gathers content from staff, uses simple systems for submissions, and turns everyday school moments into posts families actually care about.
3. Her growth with short-form video is especially worth hearing. Elissa opens up about trying new things, learning what works on Instagram, and seeing stronger results with shorter Reels, trending audio, and branded cover images.
4. You’ll also hear how bringing in a student intern helped expand storytelling in a fresh way. It’s a practical example of how schools can grow their content capacity, empower students, and create more authentic coverage without needing a huge team.

SPECIAL GUEST

Elissa Dickey

Communications and Marketing Director

Aberdeen Public School District, South Dakota

Email: [email protected] 

Website: https://www.aberdeen.k12.sd.us 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AberdeenPublicSchools 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aberdeenpublicschools/ 

USEFUL INFORMATION

• Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!
• Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/

MORE RESOURCES

Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools!

Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here

www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

1. Kari Klebba reveals the moment Milton realized their usual enrollment reminders weren’t landing - and the unexpected shift that changed their results.
2. You’ll hear the simple “event-style” concept they used to make 4K/kindergarten enrollment feel exciting and why it sparked attention well beyond the classroom.
3. Kari breaks down what her community consistently responds to (and what they scroll past), including a few small creative choices that made a big difference. She also shares the tools she uses!
4. Wondering how to pull off kid-focused content without chaos (or complaints)? Kari shares the behind-the-scenes approach that keeps it smooth, repeatable, and parent-friendly.

SPECIAL GUEST

Kari Klebba

Communications, Community Outreach, and Safety Coordinator

School District of Milton, Wisconsin

Email: [email protected] 

Website: https://www.milton.k12.wi.us 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SchDistofMilton 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milton_school_district 

USEFUL INFORMATION

• Original 4K Signing Day Post
• Signing Day Reel from Last Year (most viewed Reel)
• Cha Cha Slide Reel
• 4K Flyer
• VanHalen Jump into 4K Reel
• Saved a Seat Reel
• 4K Orientation Event Cover
• Static 4K Orientation Post on Facebook
• Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!
• Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/

MORE RESOURCES

Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools!

Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here

www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

1. Andrea breaks down what’s changing (without panic) - why WCAG 2.1 AA is becoming the standard for all school digital content (including social media), plus the key compliance timelines (April 2026/April 2027).
2. Alt text becomes a daily habit, not an optional extra. You’ll learn what “good” alt text sounds like, what to avoid when describing students, and how to edit alt text on Facebook/Instagram (even after posting).
3. Video accessibility is more than auto-captions. The episode explains when captions matter most, how to handle “vibes-only” videos, and why accurate captions can help both accessibility and discoverability.
   
   
   

Email: [email protected] 

Follow Andrea on X: @andreagribble 

Website: https://socialschool4edu.com  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/socialschool4edu  

USEFUL INFORMATION

• Video Tip - How to add alternative text to Facebook images
• Video Tip - How to auto caption your videos in Instagram Reels
• Social Media for Schools Retreat - Register here!
• Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!
• Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/

MORE RESOURCES

Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools!

Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here

www.SocialSchool4EDU.com