Media Release
Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) and authorized media outlets often use photo, video, and audio recordings of students and/or parents at school or district events. These photos and recordings, which are used for educational, instructional, and promotional purposes, are the property of GCPS and authorized media outlets and may be shared publicly, including on social media. By receiving the GCPS Handbook Information for Students and Families, you consent to this use.
Opt-Out Information
If you do not want GCPS to use photos, audio, or videos of your child, you need to:
- Notify your principal in writing within 10 days of receiving the student handbook. If you provide written notice at any time during the school year, please allow the school 5-7 business days to update the student information system.
- Include in the Letter/Email:
- The student’s name and student ID number.
- A statement that you are opting out of the release of media.
- Your signature and the date
This opt-out is valid for the current school year and must be renewed each year if you wish to continue opting out.
School and District photographers will make every reasonable effort to identify the primary subjects in photographs and not publish photos containing students on the opt-out list.
Important Notes:
- Public Safety Exceptions: Photos, videos, or recordings may still be taken for public safety and security reasons.
- Activity Limitations: Students who opt out may not participate in activities where photos or recordings are essential. Public events such as sporting events, theatre productions, etc., are considered open to the public, and outside photographers and videographers are not governed by this media release.
- External Media: Gwinnett County School District will not be responsible for and cannot control photographs, audio recordings, or video recordings captured by individuals or entities who are not acting as employees or agents of the district.
- External Organizations: Any media captured by organizations outside of GCPS requires principal approval and parental consent through the organization’s own release form.
- Annual Notice: Please note that your written notice will be effective for the current school year only and must be renewed on an annual basis.