Instagram accounts created using school names and logos are on the rise at several beach high schools. While the pictures may seem funny to some, they present a question of comedy or immaturity.

“I think they are just kids trying to have fun,” said junior Caitlyn Dewey. “I think that some of them are actually funny, but people just keep making more, and eventually, it gets stupid.” 

One side believes the accounts to be harmless and funny while the other finds them immature and unethical.

“Posting stuff about another student without their permission is unethical,” said freshman Madison Kines, an [Information Technology Foundation] student.

The most popular accounts at Ocean Lakes are @slumpdolphinsofolhs, @olhsphins.parking, @olhs.fitcheck, @olhstoilets, @olhs.lunch, @dolphinsdownbad, @oceanlakesconfessions, @ocean.lakes.highschool.tea, @olhs_ships and @oceanlakes_naps. 

“I think they’re pretty funny, and I don’t really find them to be inappropriate, as they’re pretty much harmless and aren’t really significantly damaging the student body in any major way,” said senior Shawn Watkins. “They definitely also support a sense of morale in the students as well.”

Questions about how administrators will react to the accounts have also been raised since students submit pictures taken unknowingly, without consent in some cases. In addition, some comments that violate school policy for maintaining a safe learning environment have surfaced.

“I don’t think admin will particularly ‘like’ them, but they can’t really do anything about it unless it’s like threats or something that could potentially ‘harm the school’s reputation,’” said Caitlyn.

Many students believe the administrators don’t and shouldn’t have any jurisdiction over the accounts at all.

“I wouldn’t see why an admin would do anything, because in all honesty, they shouldn’t really have the authority to,” said Shawn.

Similarly, in regards to a recent yet unrelated social media platform post, VBCPS sent out an email Dec. 16 explaining precautions being taken by the school to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff.

“This serves as a good example of why it is important to avoid sharing posts online that refer to school safety threats. Even jokes can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for our students, families, and staff. We ask our families to monitor their children’s social media activity and to take the opportunity to speak with them about being responsible citizens online,” said VBCPS.

Student Instagram accounts are still part of creating school history, and some argue, record the type of energy that exists throughout the COVID-19 crisis.

“Some of them are really immature, but again, [they’re] just kids trying to have fun and make the best out of a stressful environment,” said Caitlyn.