Director of Communications

Position Title:

Director of Communications

Position Type:
Exempt

Reports To:

Associate Superintendent

Serves as the District's chief communications officer and official media spokesperson, responsible for managing internal and external communications for the District, to provide accurate and timely information to the educational staff, students, and citizens of the community regarding efforts by the district to provide each student with a quality education.

An earned Bachelor's Degree (A) or higher in Communications, Journalism, or related field.

Experience in educational communications (Preferred).

Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Superintendent may find appropriate and acceptable.

Ability to effectively communicate both written and orally.

Develop, direct, and oversee the day-to-day operations of the District's Communications Department.

• Establishes, documents, and implements standardized procedures for media relations and public communications, including crisis communication protocols.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for community stakeholders and media outlets regarding district communications.
• Develops and implements crisis communication plans in coordination with district leadership.
• Oversees public records requests, providing timely and complete responses to requests for information pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
• Develops, implements, and annually evaluates a comprehensive District Communications Strategic Plan aligned to the District Strategic Plan, including measurable goals and performance indicators.
• Writes news releases and prepares information for the Superintendent, as needed.
• Develops internal communication systems to ensure district employees receive accurate and timely information.
• Establishes and enforces district branding guidelines to ensure consistency across all schools and departments.
• Develops a comprehensive marketing plan to support the district's communications goals and Strategic Plan or Framework.
• Works with district and school staff to create strategies and communication tools using all communication media.
• Attends School Board meetings to coordinate media presence, provide approved information, and facilitate communication between Board members and media in accordance with established Board policies.
• Identifies and develops media stories highlighting district programs, student achievement, and staff excellence to proactively promote a positive public image of the District.
• Coordinates communications and logistics within the Communications Department and with other VWSD offices and schools.
• Coordinates communications, media coverage, branding, and promotional materials for district events and initiatives.
• Establishes annual goals and objectives for the district public information program and budgets accordingly.
• Supervises the preparation of district publications.
• Develops and administers community perception surveys and stakeholder feedback tools to assess public sentiment and inform district communication strategies.
• Establishes and maintains responsive communication channels with community organizations and stakeholders to ensure accurate and timely dissemination of district information.
• Maintains accurate files and mailing lists on community organizations with expressed interests in educational affairs.
• Serves as a resource for staff development in the area of communication.
• Assists school communication efforts through training, professional direction, and review of communications prepared by school staff.
• Oversees the website and the marketing program for the school district.
• Supports and promotes district volunteer initiatives through coordinated communication efforts.
• Develops, monitors, and manages official district-level social media platforms in accordance with district policies and applicable laws.
• Develops or manages development of graphics for the school district.
• Performs additional duties as assigned and directed by the Superintendent or designee.

240 Days

Subject to provisions of School Board policies on performance evaluations.

Salary Schedule CO07, based on degree and experience.