Hutto ISD launches Student Influencer Program

HUTTO, Texas — Hutto ISD is launching a new “Student Influencer Program,” giving middle and high school students the chance to create content for the district’s social media presence while building skills for the digital age.

District leaders say they’re hoping that 12 to 15 students to apply. 

District communications manager Eliska Padilla says at least two students from each campus will be selected to highlight school life through videos, posts and articles they write. 

They will be required to submit two pieces of content per month, covering topics such as school athletic events, club activities or personal experiences for the length of the school year. They’ll then be reviewed by the school’s communications leader who posts it onto social media.

As an example, Padilla said students part of the homecoming dance committee could make content on how they plan the dance, or relay information to students about when to get tickets.

“Having students tell that story, it might get more students engaged and involved with things they’re interested in,” Padilla said. 

Padilla says the goal is to give students with all types of backgrounds and interests a platform to share their perspectives and prepare them for a world where social media plays a major role.

“If students are telling other students what they experienced, then it’s authentic and it’s real. It has much more power,” Padilla said. “We also want to help students have experience in digital skills and leadership.” 

Padilla says it would help students work on their public speaking, writing and marketing skills. Student influencers may also be given opportunities to speak at events and represent the school.

According to a new Texas law, schools are required to prohibit students from using cell phones or personal electronic devices during the school day. Padilla says student influencers will make content during school events or club activities instead. Although, she says there could be exceptions for students who ask permission ahead of time. 

“We’re trying not to add another class or another club,” Padilla said. “It’s just for them to tell the story of the activities they already participate in.”

Eighth grader Bianka Florek said she is eager for the opportunity, even though she doesn’t currently use social media.

“I have a few ideas, like showing our progress in dance class and how our robot’s going along in robotics,” Florek said.

Padilla said the program will not only allow students to showcase school activities, but will also help make social media a more positive space.

“If there’s content that’s uplifting you and showing, you know, all the good things in life, I feel like social media can be really good in those instances,” Padilla said. 

Students interested in joining the program must apply with a one-minute audition video and answer three application questions by Sept. 15. Padilla also says that they’ll look through student’s social media accounts to ensure they’re choosing people who will best represent the Hutto Hippo brand.