Florida bill will require schools to teach benefits, risks of social media
As they create on Tik Tok, post to Instagram, and snap on Snapchat, many students are ahead of the curve when it comes to social media and tech. Educators, especially those who are not digital natives themselves, are often overwhelmed with trying to keep up with the ever-changing social media trends. And teaching their students how to use social media responsibly is even more challenging. In light of this, we’re excited to see one state making moves to empower and equip students to navigate their social lives online.
This week, the Senate Education Committee in Florida proposed a bill that could require schools to create a curriculum on social media. The bill would empower schools to teach students about their online footprint, the benefits and risks associated with social media, and how it impacts them.
What does the social media bill mean for Florida Schools?
A first for state law, the bill would provide a strict definition for social media as “any form of interactive electronic communication through an internet website or application by which a user creates a service-specific identifying user profile to connect with other users of the internet website or application for the purpose of communicating and sharing information, ideas, news, stories, opinions, images, and other content.”
Senator Danny Burgess, the sponsor of the social media bill, says that he hopes that this new bill will teach students and their families how to use social media platforms positively. Burgess shared that, “It is hard for me to talk to my kids who are coming up in age about these risks.” This new bill would require school districts to create lessons focused on the benefits and risks of social media.
Has the social media bill in Florida passed?
The social media bill, which has bipartisan support has not passed, yet. Two more committees must pass it before it can be voted on in the Senate. On January 11, 2022, the Florida State Legislature will meet for its annual 60-day session. If the bill passes, it would go into effect next July.
Here at The Social Institute, we know the power of positive social media use and its connection to students’ social-emotional learning. We are thrilled to see states taking actionable steps to further benefit the whole student by emphasizing safe and healthy social media habits through their education system.Looking for tips on how to ensure social media is a healthy, happy, and safe space for students? Check out this article! For more information about empowering your students as they navigate social media, SEL, and all things tech check out our website.
About The Social Institute
The Social Institute partners with schools nationwide to empower students, families, and educators to navigate social-emotional health, social media, and technology positively. Schools access our student-respected, turnkey curriculum through WinAtSocial.com, an interactive, gamified learning platform. With solutions for students, parents, and educators, we offer a systemic and comprehensive SEL program through a unique and positive approach. We are proud to serve public and independent partners such as Ravenscroft School, Woodward Academy, Oldfields School, All Saints Episcopal School, Lake Forest School District, Boston Public Schools, and more. For more information on how to empower your students to make high-character decisions online and off, please contact us.