to think my DD should not have to sign an agreement promising not to criticise the school on social media?

[cinnamontoast]

The Home-School agreement now includes a clause saying they should 'not make negative comments about the school or individuals' on social media. My feeling is that this a) infringes their freedom of speech, b) demonstrates a draconian attitude and an astonishing lack of confidence on the part of the school, and c) makes them more, rather than less, likely to go on Facebook and slag off the school.
But perhaps I'm overreacting? Thoughts, please!

Scooby, if you read the thread you will note that concerns aren't about "supposed" flaws or any wish to "revenge", but about genuine whistleblowing. Or do you think it right that if, say, a school is guilty of unsafe practices and is refusing to do anything about it, it should also be able to stifle publicity about this? Why should schools be immune when, for instance, hospitals and businesses aren't?

No organisation, institution or company should be above criticism.

And you seem to be making very large assumptions for this school. Why do you assume that its principal is lying?

It's not a large assumption. Published school rules never list the allowances that will be made in certain circumstances. Of course they don't. Like when the speed limit is posted they don't say 'except when you are speeding following an ambulance to hospital in an emergency', yet you will be let off the fine if that is the case.
I am assuming that whatever the stated rules are, allowances will be made in certain circumstances because teachers aren't complete dicks.