Strengthening Community Ties Through Social Media

With the rise of social media networks like Facebook, expectations for greater connectivity and interaction have increased as well. How have schools responded to this societal trend?

“The multiplier effect of social media platforms like Facebook creates an incredible potential for us to reach out to a huge audience,” says Mr Paul Leong, Vice-Principal of Ngee Ann Secondary School.

Ngee Ann Secondary School first embarked on a Facebook engagement project in 2009 to connect with their students, parents, staff and alumni. Snippets on school activities and important information are posted frequently to update nearly four thousand fans of the page.

“Our aim is to build a sense of affiliation and school pride,” says Mr Joseph Teo, subject head of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) at Ngee Ann Secondary School.

“Clearly, when parents, schools and the community collaborate to complement the efforts of one another, our children are the true beneficiaries,” said Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Education Hawazi Daipi, during the Budget debate this year.

Connecting with Parents

“Facebook and social media platforms allow us to share news instantaneously,” says Mr Teo, who recognises the need to keep up with a fast paced society.

When a group of Secondary Three students embarked on a camp in Malaysia this year, teachers posted timely updates online to assure parents and provide information on the estimated time of arrival back at school due to heavy traffic.

A post announcing the school’s first ever East Zone Badminton ‘B’ Division title this year also created a buzz of excitement among parents and students alike.

“I like to keep track of the school events and be notified regularly,” said Mdm Catherine Tay, a parent who actively follows the school’s Facebook page.

The school also believes that parents go online when looking at options for their child after the Primary School Leaving Examinations (PSLE). Through Facebook, parents can find out more about the school’s programmes for students, Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) and even the school’s interactions with local and overseas educators.

“The interactive nature of Facebook allows the school to build relationships with our intended audience,” says Mr Leong.

Building a Community

The school’s Facebook page extends the school community beyond its physical walls by reflecting the news and events happening around the school. For example, information on Secondary One Registration was posted in late December last year, and updates on sport CCAs fill the page during competition season.

Teachers would also use the platform to highlight students for their outstanding performance and contributions to the community. Often, students come to know about the achievements of others through the online updates and would offer congratulations along the school walkways.

“Our shared experiences bind us together, building school affiliation and pride,” says Mr Teo.