USD 333 Concordia Schools
One click of a button – with good or bad information – can change a life, Chet Kuplen, CEO and Founder of Sports in Kansas told junior and high school students last week during the “Power of Social Media Tour” across the state. Kuplen brought one student onto the stage to demonstrate his point. Students in the crowd selected this student for the many ways she utilizes social media. Kuplen then asked for all students in the crowd to stand who follow her on social media, and nearly three-fourths of the students in the auditorium stood. Kuplen showed how these students, with one click of a button on social media, could share the post with everyone in the auditorium, and probably most people in Concordia. Kuplen says this illustrates that one click can change a life. That information can be kindness, compassion and generosity. But unfortunately, the information could also ruin a person’s reputation or character sharing a rumor, criminal activity, or false incriminating evidence.
Concordia’s “Think Before You Post” presentation was sponsored by North Central Kansas Medical Center and Kansas State Extension River Valley District. Kevin Muff, organizer of the event, says the topic is relevant to our junior and high school students and community. The message also coordinates well with efforts to engage our students in conversations about mental health and maintain a strong school climate.
The effects of cell phone and social media use among adolescents are devastating. Teens spend an average of 7 hours and 22 minutes per day on their phone, according to a report by Common Sense Media. Research also shows that the average person picks up their phone about 58 times per day. Each instance is an opportunity for an adolescent either to feel pride and satisfaction, or stress and anguish.
Sports in Kansas has been sharing positive news about Kansas athletes since 2019. This media outlet now has 450,000 followers, five radio stations, livestream video of many games across Kansas, and receives about 15,000 direct messages per day with news about athletes in the state. Kuplen spoke about the importance of participating in activities (including those other than just sports) to gain friendships, enhance relationships, and learn skills that will be used throughout life. He told about the importance of students representing their family, their school, and their community through the many forms of social media now common. And Kuplen says whatever is shared on social media will follow that person forever, including future employers, tech and college recruiters, and families.
USD 333 would like to thank NCK Medical Center and K-State Extension River Valley District for sponsoring this event.
