JOB DESCRIPTION:

Responsible for managing and disseminating information about the school district. Acts as the primary point of contact for media inquiries. Works to enhance community understanding and support for the district’s objectives and activities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Credential and/or License: Possession of a valid California driver’s license
Education:
A Bachelor’s degree is required, Master’s Degree is preferred.
Field of Study in English, Journalism, Communications, Public Relations and/or Marketing or other Education Related areas is preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

Five or more years experience in communications or marketing.
Two or more years of website/social media management experience.
Relevant experience in public relations, media relations, or similar roles, ideally within an educational setting.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

Ability to communicate articulately, both orally and in writing., Proficiency in digital and social media tools, knowledge of crisis communication, the ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure, and effective communication with diverse groups. Familiarity with public relations principles, website management, graphic design, and photography may also be beneficial.
Apply communication skills in formal and informal settings
Manage comprehensive external and internal communications programs; establish and maintain cooperative working relationship Apply creativity and originality. Maintain confidentiality.
Knowledge of principles and techniques of consumer and market research; graphic design techniques.
Computer software applications applicable to job functions; method of news dissemination.
Familiarity and understanding of the organization, operations and communication challenges found in a public school district.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Public Information Officer will be responsible for the following:

PERFORMS OTHER TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES AS ASSIGNED BY THE SUPERINTENDENT.

Serves as Strategic Partner for the Superintendent and the Board of Education: Develop and implement comprehensive communication plans and strategies to promote the district’s mission, vision, and goals.
Serves upon request as speechwriter for Superintendent.
Serves as adviser to the Board of Education on matters of Communication and Community Relations at the direction of the Superintendent.
Identifies, in consultation with the Superintendent, projects requiring ongoing oversight, providing ongoing updates.
Plans and creates written drafts of phases of project development, and presents these to the Superintendent for review.
Manages multiple projects with firm deadlines simultaneously.
Manages the budget for communication activities.
Attends all Board of Education meetings and workshops; assists in live streaming Board meetings, serves as liaison to news media.
Develop and manage communication plans during emergencies and crisis situations, ensuring timely and accurate information dissemination to the public and media. Establish and maintain relationships with news media, facilitate interviews, and coordinate media activities and events.
Serves as the brand ambassador and partner in the recruitment, retention, and selection of staff.
Leads committees and task forces as assigned by the Superintendent.
Research, write, edit, and distribute various communication materials, including press releases, newsletters, brochures, presentations, and website content.
Work with the Assistant to the Superintendent to respond to inquiries from the public, media, staff and other stakeholders.