Greece, N.Y.—Greece Athena Principal Jason Gianotti began tweeting news and events for his school last year.
“Primarily as a means of sharing the great message of what’s happening here,” said Gianotti.
The concept opened the door for the district itself to begin posting on Twitter and Facebook. Two weeks ago, the district’s Facebook page went live. Last week, a Twitter page followed. Greece’s new social media accounts were created to open communication with community members and provide some surveillance.
“We want to keep an eye on everything from curriculum instruction to everything around our students and their safety,” said Barbara Deane-Williams, Greece Superintendent of Schools.
Greece Athena students have developed an appreciation for their school-specific Twitter account that provides sports and activities updates regularly.
“It’s a big part of the culture now, teens are using it. It makes sense,” said senior Nicole Maier.
Students who spoke with 13 WHAM News said they would approve of the district monitoring its social media accounts to curb bullying and bolster security.
“There are fights that go on,” said senior Michael Lauria. “I think the school could pick up on that and definitely get involved, directly mediate it, put a stop before it starts.”
Other local districts using social media include Brockport, Rochester City School District and Pittsford. None of the districts use Facebook and Twitter, nor do they use their accounts to the extent Greece schools have as of yet.
