Mastering Social Media for Schools

Hosted by Andrea Gribble

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Episodes

332

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

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!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 17, 2026Episode 33248 min

From Local Schools to Global Impact: Giving Back with Allison Martinson

Today is a very special interview with Allison Martinson, our graphic designer here at #SocialSchool4EDU. You’ll get to know Allison beyond the incredible designs she creates and hear why giving back has become such an important part of her life and our shared mission. Giving back doesn’t have to mean doing something huge. We’ll talk about how each of us can use our own gifts, resources, and opportunities to make an impact right where we are - and sometimes much farther than we ever imagined. You’ll hear more about how #SocialSchool4EDU is intentionally giving back and why supporting schools, students, and educators goes far beyond the social media work we do every day. This episode comes with an invitation for YOU! Whether you feel called to make a difference locally or globally, we hope this conversation inspires you to find one way to step in, serve others, and create your own ripple effect. SPECIAL GUEST Allison Martinson Graphic Designer at #SocialSchool4EDU Email: allisonmartinson2002@gmail.com Phone Number: 612-209-0117 Honduras Well Projects - www.honduraswellprojects.org Agua Viva International - aguavivainternational.org Website: www.socialschool4edu.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/socialschool4edu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialschool4edu/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SocialSchool4EDU USEFUL INFORMATION Our first mission trip to Honduras was amazing! Visit Facebook for a glimpse of our experience: Photos Video summary of our trip Video of toothbrush donation Website to learn more about #SocialSchool4EDU’s program - coming soon! Just stay connected by visiting www.socialschool4edu.com 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

August 10, 2026Episode 33142 min

Practical AI Strategies for School Communications with Frank Devereaux

Frank Devereaux shares how school communicators can move beyond viewing AI as a threat or shortcut and start using it as a thought partner to strengthen ideas, streamline workflows, and create clearer messages. Discover how custom AI agents trained on your district’s style guides, mission, and trusted resources can help your team communicate more consistently - without losing the human voice your community values. You’ll hear which privacy-conscious and educator-friendly AI tools deserve a closer look, plus why clear guardrails and transparency are essential for building trust with staff, families, and students. Find out how AI can give school communicators more time to focus on what technology cannot replace: authentic, emotional storytelling that connects families to the heart of their schools. SPECIAL GUEST Frank Devereaux Educational Technology Integration Specialist Email: knarfdev@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-devereaux-8a449344/ USEFUL INFORMATION The Day “Follower Count” Died: Why School Districts Must Shift to Interest Media by Jason Wheeler Grab your virtual ticket to our Social Media for Schools Retreat ! We had an entire session (session 2) devoted to AI with Rebecca Bulstma. Jake Sturgis shared many tools in session 8 as well! 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

August 3, 2026Episode 33040 min

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

July 27, 2026Episode 32950 min

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 Media 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

July 20, 2026Episode 32829 min

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 Celebrate AI flyer example and draft of letter to send to your staff 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

July 13, 2026Episode 32741 min

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 interactions Facebook 38k views, 442 interactions “It’s OK, Mom.” Instagram 289k views, 3,610 interactions Facebook 281k views, 3,919 interactions “Tell us something that made you PROUD recently” at Cooper Junior High Instagram 11k views, 576 interactions Facebook 13.5k views, 545 interactions “Tell us something GOOD” at Wylie High School Instagram 20k views, 1.5k interactions Facebook 30.5k views, 685 interactions 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

July 6, 2026Episode 32639 min

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 Maxwell Worthy: How to Believe You Are Enough and Transform Your Life by Jamie Kern Lima Inner Excellence: Train Your Mind for Extraordinary Performance and the Best Possible Life by Jim Murphy 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

June 29, 2026Episode 32546 min

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

June 22, 2026Episode 32442 min

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

June 15, 2026Episode 32340 min

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