Principal Blogging for Education

Traditionally, schools have kept parents updated through e-mails, newsletters or notes sent home with the family. One principal is trying something new. 

Seneca Valley High School Principal, Marc Cohen, is experimenting with blogging as a way to enhance communication and interaction among the Seneca Valley community.

Cohen started the blog in August, as he began his first year as principal of Seneca Valley High School. He said the idea came from parents who, during the search for a new principal, told the superintendent they wanted access to more information and updates about the school.

Since starting the blog, Cohen has discussed the topics of his own nervousness on the first day of school, students who were recognized for highest GPAs and Seneca Valley's National Merit Scholarship Winner. However, Cohen said his goal is to use his weekly posts to also address issue-oriented topics like No Child Left Behind and the 'Waiting for Superman' documentary of education. 

Cohen sees his blog as an educational opportunity that includes two-way communication with the community, in real time. 

Cohen said parents, students and teachers given him positive feedback and showed an interest in the blog.  While he only has seven followers on the site so far, he hopes this will increase as the school becomes more aware of how to become a part of the conversation.

Blog polls and surveys are just a couple ways he is trying to inspire interactivity and receive quick feedback. Cohen said he will be working to improve the blog's appearance as well as increasing opportunity for interactivity.