Public Information Specialist

Public Information Specialist

The Public Information Specialist manages public access to the district's records in accordance with statutory rules governing government agencies. This position will manage workflow, communication, correspondence, responses to public information requests, and redaction.
The ideal candidate will preferably hold a bachelor's degree in journalism, business management, political science, or a similar field. 2+ years of experience in a professional office setting is required, and experience with a central administrative team or school district is preferred.
Experience with request management systems, including workflow, is required. This requires a high-level ability to maintain (update database), generally program (HTML), and work with two systems. Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Working knowledge of privacy-related matters such as health information, personal information, and student information. Able to interpret policies. Demonstrates the ability to reason and discern among competing rules or requests. Ability to prioritize. Strong ability to write and convey routine and complex information. Demonstrates the ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive records and sensitive information.
Provide clear communication and responses to requestors seeking records of information pursuant to the Public Information Act and other requests. Must become familiar with the Texas Public Information Handbook and statutory citations for rules and correspondence related to the PIA. Must enjoy meeting others, building relationships with staff across the district, and be clear with staff when seeking records. Work with staff to gather information, documents, and reports from departments and campuses as necessary to respond to records requests. Evaluate the records for the next immediate steps. Review and redact documents produced in response to requests. Refine or maintain current systems, workflow, procedures, internal regulations, PIA calendar, website, and maintain organized files. Manage the district's Public Information portal system by maintaining (updating the databases) the system, performing general programming (HTML), operating the conversion module for Google mail from Google vault, utilize and provide reports as needed. Research complex requests and provide related information to the COO, General Counsel, and others as warranted. Monitor community social media for topics. Keep the COO informed of deadlines. Work with the District's COO and general counsel on records requests that need an opinion from the Texas Attorney General's Office. Keep the Board and district leaders informed of requests as needed. Produce PIR reports. Maintain reports and data related to requests, costs, charges, frequent requestors, and other relevant data. Model high standards of professional integrity and maintain confidentiality of privileged information.
The Public Information Specialist position works in an office setting within the Administration Complex, often in a fast-paced, bustling environment.
Demonstrate patience, flexibility, and professionalism when interacting with staff, board members, parents, and members of the community. Work with frequent interruptions. Ability to work after-hours to meet deadlines. Occasional travel within the district. Remain calm under stressful situations and deadlines.