Nov. 11, 2026
By Tina Moreno
Deputy Editor
School social media accounts are meant to inform the public and bring the community together. However, when political expression becomes part of these posts, it can create unnecessary conflict among students and families. LHS’ Sept. 11 football game showed why school social media accounts should remain politically neutral.
The controversy began when the school posted photos of students wearing apparel supporting President Donald Trump during a U.S.-themed home football game recognizing first responders on its official Instagram account (@Lyndhurst_High_School).
ILLUSTRATION BY LILA PEARCE-JARYNO
After receiving criticism in the comments, the school removed two of the 10 photos and turned off the comments.
According to an emailed statement from principal Ms. Vuono to The Lighthouse, the school deleted photos because responses grew heated.
The deleted photos highlighted Trump-themed gear in a way that did not reflect the red, white and blue clothing that dominated the LHS fan section, better known as the Bear Cave.
Posting political imagery on the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks was especially inappropriate. This day was meant to remember those who lost their lives and honor the first responders who aided in rescue and recovery efforts.
Teachers are expected to remain professional and avoid pushing their political beliefs onto students, so school social media accounts should follow the same standard.
Amid this tension, the First Amendment protects many forms of political expression, including clothing. Students were fully within their rights to display their beliefs through their attire.
Still, allowing students to wear political clothing is different from having a school social media account publish images that may appear to favor a political side. Instead of bringing people together, the post sparked disagreement and distracted from the event’s intended meaning.
This raises questions about fairness and political opinions in school. Teachers are expected to remain professional and avoid pushing their political beliefs onto students, so school social media accounts should follow the same standard.
LHS’ response also deserves consideration. Removing the photos and turning off the comments may have protected students from becoming targets of online disputes, but openly addressing the controversy about the Instagram post and clearly explaining the decisions involved could have prevented further confusion.
Ultimately, a school’s social media should celebrate students and school events without appearing to support a political position. Students must be allowed to express themselves within the boundaries of school rules, but posts on official accounts should represent the entire school.
Practicing political neutrality and setting clear guidelines can help schools celebrate students without creating unnecessary division.
Share
