Telos Academy Media Policy

Purpose

At Telos Academy, we value authentic learning experiences, strong relationships, and the protection of childhood privacy and dignity. This Media Policy outlines how photographs, videos, audio recordings, student work, and digital media may be collected, used, and shared within the school community.

The purpose of media use at Telos Academy is to:

  • celebrate student learning and school life

  • communicate with current and prospective families

  • document educational experiences

  • promote the mission and values of the school

  • protect student privacy and safety

Our Philosophy

We believe children deserve to learn and grow without excessive digital exposure or performative online pressure. Media will be used thoughtfully, respectfully, and sparingly, with priority given to preserving meaningful in-person experiences and protecting students’ well-being.

We aim to capture authentic moments of learning rather than create content-driven classrooms.

Types of Media

Media may include:

  • photographs

  • video recordings

  • audio recordings

  • student artwork or written work

  • classroom or event documentation

  • school marketing materials

  • website and social media content.

Student Privacy & Safety

To protect student privacy and safety:

  • personal or identifying information will never be shared

  • media will be selected carefully and respectfully

  • images that could embarrass, shame, or exploit students will never be used

  • private student information and records will remain confidential.

Social Media & Marketing

Approved media may occasionally be used on:

  • the school website

  • newsletters

  • brochures and printed materials

  • official school social media accounts

  • community advertisements or promotional materials.

Content shared publicly will aim to reflect:

  • authentic learning

  • creativity and curiosity

  • outdoor and hands-on education

  • respectful classroom culture

  • the values and mission of Telos Academy.

Family & Visitor Expectations

We ask parents, guardians, and visitors to respect the privacy of all students and families by:

  • avoiding posting photos of other children online without permission

  • refraining from recording classes or school activities unless authorized

  • being mindful that not all families permit public sharing of their child’s image.

During performances, celebrations, or special events, the school may provide specific guidance regarding photography and recording.

Consent

If parents do not agree to student images, videos, or work being used publicly under any circumstances, they may notify the school in writing indicating they do not grant public media permission.

Families may also choose limited media permission, meaning:

  • Photos/videos may be used inside the school community (e.g., classroom displays, internal newsletters, private family updates).

  • If included in public-facing media (website, marketing, social media), the child may only appear:

    • in group photos rather than individual features, OR

    • in blurred/partial/anonymous context (depending on school practice), OR

    • in learning environments where they are not the focal subject

Please notify the school in writing if you would like to choose limited media permission.

If we do not receive written notice of no media consent or limited media consent, we assume parents agree to this media policy.

Parents may update their preferences at any time by contacting the school administration.