Director of Communications and Public Relations

Title
Director of Communications and Public Relations

Job ID
10202

Salary
$105,694 – $135,534

Purpose
To control the flow of communication between the District and all community/media outlets. Design and curate media for print on all platforms. Serve as the primary point of contact for the District for managing, developing, implementing, directing, strengthening community outreach, and engagement through marketing and public relations.

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree required in communication, marketing, public relations, public policy administration, or a related field; Master's Degree preferred.

Minimum of three years of experience in journalism, marketing, school communications, and/or public relations or related fields.

Experience in developing and/or leading parent/community forums.

Thorough knowledge of desktop publishing, word processing, and related computer skills.

Experience in multi-level communications such as marketing, public relations, website design, internet use, social media interactions, crisis management, and/or external company interactions.

Ability to work collaboratively with instructional leaders and community members.

Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends.

Outstanding oral, writing, and editing skills with a demonstrated ability to translate technical or complex subject matter for general audiences.

Highly organized, self‑starter, and proactive approach to communication.

Essential Functions

Serves as chief spokesperson in the absence of the Superintendent.

Demonstrates a proactive approach to communicating on behalf of the District.

Leads the District-level communications related to marketing, media-covered events, school-related events, social media, press releases, audio, video, and more.

Demonstrates excellent decision‑making and communication skills, especially during crisis situations.

Serves as the liaison between the District and all community/media outlets.

Collaborates with other community leaders to develop relationships and strengthen communication with partners and agencies.

Prioritizes multiple projects and delivers on‑time results.

Assists District Administration and Title I Schools in promoting family engagement systems and activities that support teaching, learning, and student achievement.

Periodically surveys public opinion regarding the District and current issues in education.

Routinely attends school functions, speaking engagements, special District events, and community events that impact the District.

Publishes posts via social media, newsletters, and news media releases.

Develops and maintains the District Calendar, District Website, and the online District Directory.

Ensures all messaging and materials from the District are transparent, current, consistent, and positive.

Organizes press releases and venues for statements to the press.

Attends and oversees District events such as High School Graduation, Hall of Fame, and Retirement Banquets.

Serves as community engagement advisor to the Superintendent and Board of Education.

Supervises staff and interns as appropriate.

Assists Teaching and Learning in reporting clear student achievement information and other indicators of student success.

Manages family and community engagement budgets.

Maintains continued education of professional practices in the field and affiliates with relevant organizations for growth and best practices.

Keeps the Superintendent informed of newsworthy information that affects the District, including federal, state, and local events.

Helps promote the District's Strategic Plan, Vision, Mission, and Diversity Statement.

Assists the Student Services Department in managing the Magnet School lottery process.

Performs other duties as assigned by the Superintendent.

Members and Liaison Partners

Executive Cabinet

Community and Civic Organizations as needed or as assigned

District Administration

Print and Electronic Media Outlets

Business Partners (local and abroad)

Building Administrators

Superintendent/Board Student Groups such as Superintendent Ambassadors and Junior Board Members

Regional Office of Education

Terms of Employment
Salary is based upon the salary schedule established by the Board of Education. 261 days per year.

Evaluation
Performance will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy on Evaluation of Professional Personnel.

Physical Demands
Work involves interacting with people, objects, and equipment. Requirements include bending, stooping, twisting, turning, reaching, lifting up to 50 pounds, walking, and standing 50–75% of each shift. Visual acuity and accurate sound differentiation are essential.

Mental Demands
Must supervise children at all times, manage multiple concurrent situations, and respond to accidents and emergencies promptly.

Work Environment
The work environment is busy and occasionally noisy. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Decatur Public Schools is an equal employment opportunity employer with an affirmative action plan.

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