6. Provide Virtual Tours and Open Houses via Social Media
Virtual tours and open houses on social media can give prospective students a feel for the school without needing to visit in person. Schools can create videos and live tours showing the campus and facilities.
Watch the video here
Promoting these virtual events ahead of time and making access easy ensures they reach a wide audience. Highlighting key aspects of the school during these tours can leave a lasting impression.
Using the right social media platforms can greatly enhance communication, engagement, and learning within educational institutions.
Here are the major social media platforms to use as a school district or institution:
- Facebook: best for community building
- Instagram: best for visual content
- Threads: best for focused conversations
- X (Twitter): best for quick updates
- LinkedIn: best for alumni connections
- YouTube: best for educational videos
- TikTok: best for creative engagement
Facebook is ideal for building a community among students, parents, and staff. Schools can create a Facebook page to share updates, events, and photos, which helps foster a sense of involvement and connection. For example, posting about upcoming PTA meetings, school plays, or sports events keeps everyone informed and engaged.
Schools should regularly update their Facebook page with engaging content, including: weekly newsletters, student spotlights, and interactive polls. Encouraging parents and students to like, comment, and share posts can further extend the reach and impact of your content.
Additionally, creating Facebook groups for specific classes, clubs, or grade levels can facilitate more focused communication.
2. Instagram: Visual Content
Instagram is perfect for sharing visual content such as photos and videos of school events, student achievements, and daily activities.
Schools can use Instagram Stories and Reels to engage with students and parents in real-time. For instance, a behind-the-scenes look at a school play or a day in the life of a student can be very quite interesting to follow.
To maximize engagement, schools should post regularly and use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience. Highlighting special projects, art exhibitions, and sports victories can showcase the vibrancy and fun of school life.
3. Threads: Focused Conversations
Threads, a social media platform linked to Instagram, is useful for light-hearted debates and focused communication.
It can be used for class discussions, updates, and sharing important information. Additionally, the platform can nurture the community you already have while also helping to reach more of your target audience, including those not yet part of your community.
4. X (Twitter): Quick Updates
X, formerly known as Twitter, is great for quick updates and announcements. Schools can use it to share news, event reminders, and real-time updates. For instance, tweeting about a last-minute school closure or an upcoming deadline can quickly reach the community.
Engaging with followers by retweeting and replying to comments can also foster a more interactive and responsive school environment.
Take a look at Calabasas highschool reposting their students’ tweets:
To be effective, schools should tweet regularly and keep messages concise. Using hashtags related to the school or event can increase visibility.
5. LinkedIn: Alumni Connections
Having a LinkedIn page is essential for maintaining connections with alumni. Schools can use it to showcase alumni achievements, share professional development opportunities, and keep the community informed about school news and events.
For example, posting updates about alumni who have achieved notable career milestones can inspire current students.
Schools should create a professional page or group and update it regularly with news and achievements. Encouraging alumni to connect with the school and each other can build a strong professional network.
Sharing job postings and career advice can also add value for alumni and current students.
6. YouTube: Educational Videos
YouTube is a powerful platform for sharing educational videos. Schools can create channels to post lectures, tutorials, and event highlights.
For example, recording a science experiment demonstration or a school concert can provide valuable content for students and parents.
Here’s such an example of educational video:
Source
Schools should regularly upload high-quality videos and organize them into playlists for easy navigation.
7. TikTok: Creative Engagement
TikTok is great for sharing fun and educational videos. Schools can use it to connect with students in a casual and entertaining way. For example, short videos explaining a math concept or showcasing a school event can be both informative and engaging.
To leverage TikTok, schools should post regularly and participate in trending challenges related to education. Encouraging students to create and share their own educational content can also boost engagement. Using popular hashtags and music can help videos reach a broader audience.