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The Batavia Board of Education approved a new social media content framework at its July 21 meeting, limiting official district accounts to a defined list of topics and disabling public commenting on district posts.
The framework passed along with an accompanying 2026-27 posting schedule.
Here's what to know:
A limited list of topics: District social media accounts will now be limited to six categories: federal holidays, education-related appreciation days, state-mandated curricular topics, district and school celebrations, district operations and information, and board or strategic plan initiatives.
What's excluded: The district will not post content that recognizes or celebrates religious holidays or observances, highlights political movements or advocacy efforts, or "could reasonably be interpreted as taking a position on political, religious, or social issues," according to the framework. Posts must also be age-appropriate, tied to curriculum, and avoid "emotional criticisms and hurtful sarcasm."
No more public commenting: The district will not reopen commenting on its social media posts. The framework cites reduced legal and operational risk, and notes that Batavia already offers other feedback channels, including email, phone, board meetings, and its Community Voices Group.
How it was developed: The proposal went through the district's Administrative Council, District Coordinating Council, and a 41-member Community Voices Group before reaching the board. Board members discussed a revision to one section before voting to approve it.
As Tri-Cities Central reported in March, a Women's History Month post from BPS101 about U.S. Rep. Sarah McBride (the first openly transgender person elected to Congress) drew national attention from various media outlets.
The district deleted the post, and the following board meeting featured 13 public speakers, 12 of whom voiced support for the original post and its topic.
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