OASD to Host Free Community Screenings of LIKE

Finding Balance with Social Media

On February 10 and 11, the Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) will hold special screenings of the documentary, LIKE, in an effort to open up a dialogue between local families, community leaders and experts. Each screening will feature a viewing of the film, followed by an informative discussion centered around supporting the mental and emotional health of students. 

Having a balanced perspective on how to navigate social media platforms is essential to all parents and educators raising and educating this generation. This take-action, inspiring film is the second installment in the award-winning iNDIEFLIX Mental Health Trilogy, created to entertain, engage and enlighten about issues surrounding mental health. Research continues to confirm that having your head down, staring at the screen, chasing “likes” and seeking “followers” is the perfect recipe for low self-esteem, isolation and depression, as well as loss of focus and patience. LIKE breaks down why we find social media so irresistible, examines who is controlling who, and gives you the tools to pivot to a more balanced and contented relationship. It features Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, including the co-creator of the ‘LIKE’ button, experts in brain science and regular teenagers. Learn more and watch the film trailer at www.thelikemovie.com.

The OASD’s first screening will take place on Thursday, February 10 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Webster Stanley auditorium, located at 915 Hazel St, Oshkosh. The second screening will take place on Friday, February 11 from 6 - 7:30 p.m. in the Alberta Kimball Auditorium at Oshkosh West, located at 375 N Eagle St, Oshkosh. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis. All are invited to attend, though the content is geared toward middle and high school students, parents, caregivers, and community members. Limited virtual viewing access is available for those unable to attend in-person or during the scheduled days/times. To request virtual access contact Jean Manecke, OASD District SEL Coordinator at 920.424.0170 ext. 4339 or jean.manecke@oshkosh.k12.wi.us

The filmmakers of LIKE inspire kids and teens to consider a life of JOMO (joy of missing out) as opposed to FOMO (fear of missing out). They use their proven 4 E formula: entertainment, empathy, enlightenment, and a heavy dose of empowerment, arming their audiences with easy-to-execute strategies to change their habits that very same day. Research and data is plentiful: happiness surges when we have digital balance, not overload; when we give ourselves time to look at actual trees, animals, and all things nature, as well as interact – however we can – with other humans.

The OASD’s community screenings are made possible through a mental health grant awarded to the District. The OASD will host screenings of "Angst" - a similar film-based education program - in April 2022. To learn more visit oshkosh.k12.wi.us/district/student-services.