Advertising in the Schools
NEPN/NSBA Code: KHB
The School Committee believes that, in general, product advertising and/or endorsement is to be discouraged in the schools. The School Committee has an obligation to assure that students, who are required by law to attend, are not subjected to commercial messages of any kind without careful analysis of the benefits and risks that pertain in each instance. Since the issue of advertising in the schools can be attended by strong opinions, the School Committee may seek comments and recommendations from the administration, the professional teaching staff and the community prior to considering any form of advertising in schools, on school grounds or on school buses.
The School Committee is opposed in principle to accepting any programming, equipment or services that are offered only on the basis of mandatory exposure of students to product advertising. The School Committee recognizes, however, that in some instances product names, logos or advertising may be acceptable when the programming, equipment or services can be clearly shown to be of significant benefit to the school program.
The School Committee reserves the right to consider requests for advertising in the schools, on school grounds or on school buses on a case-by-case basis, except that:
Brand specific advertising of food or beverages is prohibited in school buildings, on school grounds or on school buses except for food and beverages meeting standards for sale or distribution on school grounds in accordance with Department of Education rules. For the purpose of this paragraph, “advertising” does not include advertising on broadcast media or in print media such as newspapers and magazines, clothing with brand images worn on school grounds or advertising on product packaging.
Consistent with its efforts to promote a tobacco, alcohol, and drug free environment, the School Committee will not agree to displays of advertising in school buildings, on school grounds, or on school buses for tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, drugs (including prescription and over-the-counter medications), performance enhancing substances, or dietary supplements.
Requests for advertising signage or banners on outside school athletic facilities must comply with local zoning ordinances and be approved, in advance, by the Athletic Director and High School Principal. Requests to advertise on school grounds (other than outside school athletic facilities), inside schools, or on school buses must be directed to the Superintendent of Schools, who is responsible for administering this policy. The Superintendent may choose to consult with the Policy Committee before rendering a decision. If a request is denied by the Superintendent, the party making the request may appeal the decision to the School Committee, whose decision shall be final.
Legal Reference: 20-A M.R.S.A. § 6662
Me. Dept. of Ed. Rule Ch.51
Cross Reference: EFE – Sales of Food in School
FFA – Memorials and Testimonials
Adopted: May 12, 2011
Revised: June 13, 2013