Mastering Social Media for Schools

Andrea Gribble
  • 4.9 (50)
  • How To
  • Updated Weekly

Do you manage social media for a K12 school? Then this podcast is for you! Struggling to find time for social media? Wondering why people won’t engage on your Facebook page? Can’t get content from your staff? Trying to get students to follow your Instagram Stories? These are just some of the big struggles that #SocialSchool4EDU CEO and social media storyteller, Andrea Gribble, digs into on the Mastering Social Media for Schools podcast. In addition to exclusive interviews and step-by-step strategies, each episode is designed to inspire and empower you on your journey to master school social media! This podcast is meant for anyone in K12 education - public schools, private schools, charter schools, online schools, tech/career centers - we serve them all! Grab insight into what’s working in hundreds of schools based on the experience of Andrea and her team. They directly manage more than 90 school districts, and coach/mentor more than 200 other schools. But Andrea didn’t always know what worked. When she started her business in 2014, she wished she had someone helping her answer questions like: What platform should I start with? How important is my school hashtag? Should every school in my district have its own Facebook page? What kind of videos do best? How do I represent everything that is going on in my school when I’m only one person? You’ll discover why thousands of educators follow Andrea’s advice on social media and even have fun while listening. Hit “subscribe” and get ready to master social media for your school!

  1. 1d ago

    Why Communication is a Superintendent’s Most Important Skill with Deron Stender

    Deron Stender has spent 24 years leading school districts, and one lesson stands above the rest: communication builds trust. Hear how early setbacks helped shape his belief that communication isn't just part of leadership - it's one of the most important leadership skills a superintendent can develop.Are you telling your community what's happening - or involving them in the conversation? Deron shares a simple mindset shift that's helped him gain buy-in around difficult financial decisions and strengthen relationships across his district.Every leader needs someone who will tell them the truth. Learn how Deron found a trusted staff partner who isn't afraid to say, "This doesn't make sense," and why that honest feedback has made all the difference in his district's communications.Small districts may not have a dedicated communicator, but they can't afford to ignore communication. Deron explains why investing in communication training, professional networks, and relationship-building can have a lasting impact on your school district's success. SPECIAL GUEST Deron Stender Superintendent Creston Community Schools, Iowa Email: dstender@crestonschools.org  Website: https://www.crestonschools.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100048656033523  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccsd_panthers/  X: https://x.com/CCSD_Panthers  USEFUL INFORMATION Learn more about your local School Public Relations Association here.Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/MORE RESOURCES Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools! Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

  2. Jul 27

    On the Rise: How PenSPRA is Elevating School Communication Leaders in PA with Christa Fazio

    Growing membership doesn’t happen by accident. Christa explains how PenSPRA built relationships with superintendents, tracked new communications roles, and reached out when districts posted jobs.For one-person school PR shops, connection is everything. You’ll hear how PenSPRA creates a built-in network through mentoring, monthly conversations, and professional development designed specifically for school communication leaders.Christa’s advice for other SPRA chapters is refreshingly practical. From grassroots outreach to a stronger LinkedIn presence, she shares simple strategies that help elevate the role of school communications statewide.Christa shares how PenSPRA’s unique executive director model works - and why contracting with the Chester County Intermediate Unit gives the chapter access to an entire communications team, not just one person. SPECIAL GUEST Christa Fazio PenSPRA Executive Director  Division Director of Communications, Marketing, and Engagement Chester County Intermediate Unit, Pennsylvania Email: Christaf@cciu.org  Instagram: https://instagram.com/christafazio  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christa-fazio-9694503/  Websites:  https://penspra.com/  https://cciu.org  USEFUL INFORMATION Helpful blog: Back to School – Checklist for Getting Staff Involved in Social MediaOrder your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/MORE RESOURCES Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools! Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

  3. Jul 20

    AI Flyers and the Trust Problem for Schools

    Today’s solo episode shares a timely reminder that AI can absolutely support school communication - but it should never replace the real, authentic stories that build trust with families.You’ll hear why student photos, names, and likenesses need extra caution when AI tools are involved, even when families have already signed photo permission forms.AI-created flyers may look impressive, but they often create problems for social media. Andrea explains why tiny text, too many details, and QR codes can make your message harder for families to act on.This episode gives you practical language and simple guardrails to share with staff so your district can use AI responsibly while protecting privacy, accessibility, clarity, and trust. Email: andrea@socialschool4edu.com   Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreagribble/   Website: www.socialschool4edu.com    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/socialschool4edu    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialschool4edu/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SocialSchool4EDU  USEFUL INFORMATION Download the 2026-2027 Special Days to CelebrateAI flyer example and draft of letter to send to your staffOrder your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/MORE RESOURCES Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools! Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

  4. Jul 13

    What a 23-Year-Old School Communicator Can Teach Us About Social Media with Piper Adamson

    Piper Adamson shares how her first year in school PR has transformed her perspective on storytelling, student engagement, and why working in schools is unlike any other communications role.Discover how simple, authentic content - from a spontaneous “67 Day” Reel to hallway microphone interviews - can generate incredible engagement and strengthen community connections.Learn Piper’s practical workflow for capturing great school photos and videos using a camera, smartphone, quick editing tools, and a relationship-first approach with students.Find out why Wylie ISD is seeing success with photo carousels, student-centered storytelling, and captions that do the heavy lifting instead of text-heavy graphics. SPECIAL GUEST Piper Adamson Communications & Marketing Specialist Wylie ISD, Texas Email: piper.adamson@wylieisd.net  Personal Instagram: @piper_aa  LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/piperaa48 Website: https://www.wylieisd.net  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wylieisd/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewylieisd/  X: https://x.com/WylieISD  USEFUL INFORMATION “67th Day of School”Instagram 377k views, 38.7k interactionsFacebook  38k views, 442 interactions“It’s OK, Mom.”Instagram 289k views, 3,610 interactionsFacebook 281k views, 3,919 interactions“Tell us something that made you PROUD recently” at Cooper Junior HighInstagram 11k views, 576 interactionsFacebook 13.5k views, 545 interactions“Tell us something GOOD” at Wylie High SchoolInstagram 20k views, 1.5k interactionsFacebook 30.5k views, 685 interactionsOrder your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/MORE RESOURCES Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools! Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

  5. Jul 6

    Building Community Through a Growth Group with Meredith Oman

    Meredith Oman shares how one simple invitation turned into a life-changing growth group for Andrea. What started as a short book study became a weekly source of encouragement, accountability, friendship, and personal growth.Andrea opens up about why this group has made her a better leader, mom, wife, friend, and human. Busy school communicators will relate to the challenge of carving out time - but this episode shows why the right kind of connection is worth it.You’ll learn how to start your own growth group without overcomplicating it. Meredith talks through who to invite, how often to meet, and how a simple structure of gratitude, discussion, and support can create deep impact.This conversation is a powerful reminder that real connection still matters in a social media world. If your work keeps you online all day, this episode will inspire you to build an intentional community that fills your cup and helps you grow. SPECIAL GUEST Meredith Oman Performance Coach Oman Performance Coaching, Wisconsin Email: meredith@omanhealthyliving.com  Website: https://omanperformancecoaching.com/  Connect with Meredith on Facebook USEFUL INFORMATION Book recommendations - The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication: Apply Them and Make the Most of Your Message by John MaxwellWorthy: How to Believe You Are Enough and Transform Your Life by Jamie Kern LimaInner Excellence: Train Your Mind for Extraordinary Performance and the Best Possible Life by Jim MurphyOrder your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/MORE RESOURCES Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools! Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

  6. Jun 29

    Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in School PR with Cala Elliott

    Cala Elliott shares how she stepped into school communications without a traditional PR degree - and how she continues to push through imposter syndrome by focusing on the value of the stories she gets to tell.You’ll hear why being physically present in school buildings can completely change the stories you discover. Cala explains how hallway conversations, break room chats, and simply showing up help her uncover moments that might otherwise be missed.Cala reminds us that relationship-building is one of the most powerful tools a school communicator has. When staff members know you, trust you, and see you regularly, they’re much more likely to invite you into meaningful moments.This episode is also a great reminder not to do this work alone. Cala talks about the confidence it took to reach out to others, ask questions, and build a network of people who understand the unique challenges of school PR. SPECIAL GUEST Cala Elliott Public Relations Coordinator Sherrard School District, Illinois Email: elliottc@sherrard.us or socialmedia@sherrard.us  Website: https://www.sherrard.us/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrardschooldistrict  High School Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579068032201  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherrardschooldistrict/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sherrardschooldistrict  USEFUL INFORMATION Sign up here for our Summer Book Club. We start on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 11 am CDT.Viral video of principals dancing - over 2.4 million views on Instagram.Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/MORE RESOURCES Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools! Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

  7. Jun 22

    AI, Deepfakes, and Student Photos: What Schools Need to Know with Jake Sturgis

    Jake Sturgis from Captivate Media joins Andrea to unpack the growing concern around AI, deepfakes, and student photos - and why school communicators need thoughtful guardrails, not fear-based decisions.You’ll hear why a blanket “no more student photos” policy can create unintended consequences for trust, transparency, enrollment, referendum storytelling, and family connection.Andrea and Jake share practical ways schools can reduce risk, from reviewing opt-in/opt-out processes to watching for student names, ID badges, bus numbers, computer screens, certificates, and other identifying details.This conversation will help you think through smarter storytelling strategies, including wide shots, close-up detail photos, staff training, family education, and clear communication with concerned parents. SPECIAL GUEST Jake Sturgis, APR CEO/Founder Captivate Media + Consulting, Minnesota Email: jake@captivatemedia.us  Website: https://www.captivatemedia.us/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaptivateMediaConsulting  USEFUL INFORMATION Blog: Should Schools Stop Posting Student Photos Because of AI?Sign up here for our Summer Book Club. We start on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 11 am CDT.Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/MORE RESOURCES Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools! Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

  8. Jun 15

    Authentic Strategy for the One-Person MarCom Office with Samantha Fleming

    Samantha Fleming brings nearly 20 years of independent school experience to this conversation, and her practical advice will help school communicators find more balance, purpose, and joy in the day-to-day work.You’ll hear why Samantha believes social media should not be about selling your school. Instead, it should showcase your culture, celebrate your people, and share the joy already happening inside your buildings.Samantha shares smart, actionable strategies for communicating with families, including when to send emails, how to avoid overwhelming parents, and why every message should have a clear purpose.Get ready for a mic-drop moment on the value of strategic communications: leaders can either pay communicators to clean up a mess or bring them to the table early to help prevent it. SPECIAL GUEST Samantha Fleming Director of Marketing, Communications, and Strategic Initiatives Oakwood School, VA Email: sfleming@oakwoodschool.com  LinkedIn: Samantha (Pleasant) Fleming Website: https://www.oakwoodschool.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OakwoodSchoolVA/#  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oakwoodschoolva  USEFUL INFORMATION Sign up here for our Summer Book Club. We start on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 11 am CDT.Order your copy of my book Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to Celebrate Your Students & Staff - While Keeping Your Sanity now!Interested in our membership program? Learn more here: https://socialschool4edu.com/MORE RESOURCES Free Video Training: Learn the simple secrets behind social media for K12 schools! Sign up for our free e-newsletter - click here www.SocialSchool4EDU.com

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Do you manage social media for a K12 school? Then this podcast is for you! Struggling to find time for social media? Wondering why people won’t engage on your Facebook page? Can’t get content from your staff? Trying to get students to follow your Instagram Stories? These are just some of the big struggles that #SocialSchool4EDU CEO and social media storyteller, Andrea Gribble, digs into on the Mastering Social Media for Schools podcast. In addition to exclusive interviews and step-by-step strategies, each episode is designed to inspire and empower you on your journey to master school social media! This podcast is meant for anyone in K12 education - public schools, private schools, charter schools, online schools, tech/career centers - we serve them all! Grab insight into what’s working in hundreds of schools based on the experience of Andrea and her team. They directly manage more than 90 school districts, and coach/mentor more than 200 other schools. But Andrea didn’t always know what worked. When she started her business in 2014, she wished she had someone helping her answer questions like: What platform should I start with? How important is my school hashtag? Should every school in my district have its own Facebook page? What kind of videos do best? How do I represent everything that is going on in my school when I’m only one person? You’ll discover why thousands of educators follow Andrea’s advice on social media and even have fun while listening. Hit “subscribe” and get ready to master social media for your school!

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