Communications and Public Relations Specialist

Communications & Public Relations Specialist Wayne County Public Schools

Job Description

Full-Time /

Title:

Communications & Public Relations Specialist

Reports to:

Executive Director for Community Engagement and Student & Family Support

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, education, or a related field.
• Two to five years of experience in communications, public relations, digital media, marketing, or a related field.
• Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience managing websites, social media platforms, or other digital communication tools.
• Ability to create engaging digital content, including photography, video, and graphic design.
• Ability to manage time-sensitive information and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.

• Experience in the public sector, education, news media, or nonprofit communications.
• Experience working with news media, public information requests, or crisis communications.
• Knowledge of accessibility standards (ADA), FERPA, and best practices for digital communications in educational settings.
• Experience supporting recruitment marketing, community engagement, or partnership programs.
• Bilingual abilities (Spanish or other languages).

• May require after-hours availability for emergencies or public events.
• Must be able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

The Communications & Public Relations Specialist supports the district's communication, engagement, and public information efforts by coordinating and delivering clear, timely, and accessible messaging to students, families, staff, and the community. This position focuses on the effective use of digital communication tools, media coordination, and public engagement practices to strengthen understanding of district programs, services, and initiatives. As part of their role, the Communications & Public Relations Specialist will implement established communication and marketing strategies, manage digital content across district platforms, and assist with recruitment, engagement, and community partnership initiatives.

This position supports various departmental staff recognition initiatives and directly provides support with Board of Education student and employee recognitions. This position also serves as a backup public information contact, assisting with news media inquiries, press materials, and public records support as needed. The Communications & Public Relations Specialist exercises sound judgment, maintains confidentiality, and may provide communication support outside of normal business hours during emergencies or public events.

• Implement district communication and marketing initiatives using established frameworks and guidelines.
• Manage and update district digital platforms, including the website and social media channels, to ensure accuracy, consistency, accessibility, and timeliness.
• Serve as a digital storyteller by gathering and creating content that highlights student, staff, school, and program activities through writing, photography, video, and basic graphic design.
• Assist with drafting press releases, announcements, and public-facing materials.
• Track and report engagement metrics to help assess effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement.

• Support schools and departments by creating digital tools and messaging for key engagement moments such as registration and open houses.
• Ensure communications are accessible and available in multiple languages when needed.
• Assist with the coordination of the district's Partners in Education (PIE) program by helping maintain partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations.
• Support district volunteer initiatives, including managing the volunteer (Voly) platform, coordination assistance, and recognition efforts.

• Serve as a backup Public Information Officer, assisting with media inquiries, interview coordination, and preparation of public information materials.
• Support crisis communication efforts by assisting with message distribution and media coordination as directed.
• Assist with public records requests in accordance with district policy.

• Support schools and departments in following district policies and best practices related to digital communications, FERPA, and ADA accessibility.
• Provide guidance and basic training to school-level staff on digital tools and communication practices, as appropriate.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all…