With rising concerns about cyberbullying and online safety, Instagram has introduced a new School Partnership Program to help protect students more effectively. This program empowers schools to report harmful content faster — giving educators a stronger voice in the digital world where many student issues unfold.

Instagram & Schools Team Up to Fight Bullying (Parent and Educator Video)

What is the right age for social media?

• While giving a child a smartphone in middle or high school can be practical for safety and communication, it’s wise to hold off on social media exposure
• We recommend waiting until children reach the maturity milestone of 16, when they’re more prepared to responsibly engage with platforms like Instagram

What is Instagram’s School Partnership Program?

• Instagram is allowing schools to partner with the social media company to directly report issues like cyberbullying and safety concerns, expediting response times and increasing student protection
• Cyberbullying often extends into the personal lives of students, leading to anxiety and depression that frequently go unreported
• According to reports, only a small fraction of students disclose cyberbullying experiences to educators. This new program intends to reverse this trend, enhancing school-based responses and reshaping perceptions of school authority over digital dilemmas

How does the program work?

• Schools interested in participating must apply to become an official Instagram partner, upon which they’ll receive a verification badge
• This badge not only identifies the verified school account but also distinguishes it from potential imposters
• Once verified, schools will have the advantage of prioritized reporting; their reports move to the top of Instagram's review list, prompting quicker actions against harmful content
• Real-time updates will inform schools of actions taken, such as post removals
• Though we haven’t personally observed the program’s efficacy in our partner schools, feedback from those who've piloted the initiative is positive, with resolutions achieved significantly faster than usual
• For schools that are interested in Instagram's School Partnership Program, find out more information here

Why should schools partner with Instagram?

• While this program isn’t a complete solution to cyberbullying, it’s an important step toward rebuilding trust in adult support and intervention
• Providing schools with improved tools to act on digital grievances, students may feel more secure in reporting issues to educators or trusted adults

Additional Resources

Shine Online: Positive Impact of Social Media & Screen Time

Instagram App Guide: What Parents, Educators, & Students Need to Know

Combat Online Bullying: Supporting Positive Behaviors on Campus and at Home

Understanding Social Media's Impact on Teens

Conclusion

While no program can completely eliminate the challenges of cyberbullying, Instagram’s School Partnership Program represents a promising step forward. By giving schools a stronger, faster way to address harmful content, educators can help students feel more supported and protected in both their online and offline lives. As parents and educators, staying informed, encouraging open communication, and guiding students toward responsible social media use — ideally after age 16 — are critical steps to building a safer, healthier digital environment for every child.