Empowering Students Think Before You Post

One of the most meaningful parts of my role as Kanokla’s Community Engagement and Events Coordinator is finding ways to support the students, families, and schools across the rural communities we serve. This winter and spring, I have had the opportunity to help bring Think Before You Post: The Power of Social Media to nearly a dozen schools throughout south central Kansas and northern Oklahoma. The impact has been incredible to witness firsthand.

Chet Kuplen, Founder and CEO of Sports in Kansas and Think Before You Post, launched this message in Kansas in 2019. What began as a single effort to encourage responsible social media use has now grown to reach schools in multiple states across the country. Since that time, Think Before You Post has connected with more than 800 schools and events. It has equipped thousands of people with practical tools to navigate today’s digital world safely and responsibly.

Students are hearing a message that is relevant to the everyday choices they face online. The presentation covers a ton of useful information: social media etiquette, online reputation, digital citizenship, cyberbullying, online criminal activity, viral posting, texting and driving, communicating without your phone, networking, artificial intelligence, and more. These are conversations that matter, especially in small communities where relationships matter. In a small town your reputation can follow you around.

This year, Kanokla has been proud to bring Mr. Kuplen and his presentation to Caldwell Jr/Sr High, Chaparral Jr/Sr High, Cherokee Jr/Sr High, Medford Jr/Sr High, Newkirk High School, Timberlake Jr/Sr High, Wellington High School, and Wellington Middle School with additional schools down the road. Each visit is a reminder of why strong community partnerships matter. It just shows how powerful it is when everyone comes together to support young people. Schools, families, and local organizations can make a large impact when they make these connections.

At Kanokla, our mission goes beyond delivering reliable fiber internet and advanced technology solutions. We are committed to connecting rural Kansas and Oklahoma with gig speed service, but we are equally committed to helping our communities use that technology in positive, safe, and meaningful ways. Supporting programs like Think Before You Post is one way we live out that commitment every day.

Social media and digital communication shape nearly every part of students’ lives. Every post, comment, photo, and message contributes to a digital footprint that can follow them for years. My hope is that by bringing this message into our schools, we are not only raising awareness but also empowering students to think of the future. There will be more people after these presentations who pause and think before they post. More people will choose kindness, responsibility, and respect.

Seeing students engage in these conversations, reminds me why this work matters so much. At these presentations I’ve seen the audience ask thoughtful questions that shows they are reflecting on their online choices. When we invest in young people and give them the tools to navigate the digital world with confidence and care, we are strengthening the future of our communities. I am grateful Kanokla can be part of that journey and excited to continue bringing this message to more schools in the months ahead.