AP 121

Media Relations

Background

The media serves as a valuable partner in keeping the community informed about the district’s programs, policies, and initiatives. At the same time, the district has a duty to minimize disruptions to its operations and to safeguard the privacy and well-being of its students and staff.

Procedures

  1. Approval of Media Communication

    1.1 All communications that represent the district or its decisions must be reviewed and approved by the Superintendent or designate prior to release.

    1.2 Only the Board Chair or individuals authorized by the Board may issue communications related to Board of Education matters with potential political implications.

  2. Media Requests

    2.1 All media inquiries received at schools or district sites must be directed to the Senior Manager, Communications & Community Relations.

    2.2 This process ensures the district is represented accurately and consistently on matters of local, regional, or provincial interest. It further builds awareness among media outlets who their first point of contact is at the Abbotsford School District.

  3. Media Coverage of Events

    3.1 Principals or staff wishing to invite media to cover school events must first contact the Senior Manager, Communications & Community Relations to coordinate approval and logistics.

    3.2 The Senior Manager, Communications & Community Relations may also proactively reach out to media outlets to highlight district or school initiatives and events.

  4. Media Access to Schools and District Sites

    4.1 Media representatives are not permitted to disrupt normal school operations, classroom activities, or district office functions for the purpose of gathering information.

    4.2 Requests to interview staff or students must be pre-approved by the Senior Manager, Communications & Community Relations and scheduled to avoid interference with educational or operational priorities.

    4.3 School administrators or district staff have the authority to ask media representatives to leave the premises if their presence is deemed disruptive or not in the best interest of students and staff, or if they do not have permission to be on the premises.

Reference

(Last Revised: June 2025)

Print