South Orangetown Middle School

South Orangetown Middle School Principal Dr. Karen Tesik is one of several school administrators and faculty members from across the state featured in an article on social media in the December 11 issue of On Board, a New York State School Boards Association publication.

Although electronic communication is part of many kids’ lives, Dr. Tesik says that tweens and teens who use social media can confuse “fans” and “followers” with friends.

“The social skills needed for social media are different from the skills you need to build real friendships,” she notes. “There’s instant gratification on social media. You post a photo and instantaneously get a dozen likes. It requires much more effort to reach out personally to a dozen friends to engage them in face-to-face conversations.”

“Be Respectful” is one of SOMS’ 3Bs, a school core value. Students are taught to respect themselves and others, whether in person or online. Even with parent support, kids sometimes need help.

“We run small group and individual counseling sessions to focus on social skill development for students identified as needing more intensive guidance,” Dr. Tesik said. “The goal is to help students manage their desire to fit in and understand what social success really is.”

Click here to view “Today’s Teens May Not Distinguish Between a Friend and a Follower” in the December 11, 2017 issue of On Board.

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