Frequently Asked Questions

From the FAQ page:
Also, check out MNEA's position on using student photos on teacher created websites. >>>> see below

According to the MNEA Legal Service Director,

Posting photos on a teacher created website:

School districts may have detailed policies that pertain to taking photos of students and how those photos can be used.  Some sort of “Parental Permission” or “Photo Release” would be, or should be, incorporated in a district policy regarding student photos.  Employees should follow any existing district policy when taking photos of students and especially when the teacher considers posting those photos on a website.

Without a school district policy to guide you, the best way to avoid problems when considering the use of student photos is to involve the district administrator who is responsible for making public statements or communicating with the media on behalf of the district.  If your district doesn’t have a communications director or someone willing to advise you and give permission then DO NOT post student photos on any website.  If you do get permission from an administrator, get it in writing.  Remember that there may be a parent out there who has a very good reason why they do not want their child’s photo to be publicized.  Until a teacher can be certain that they have parental permission and have not violated any district policy then they should not take or publicize a student’s photograph.