Chief of Public Relations

Job Title: Chief of Public Relations

Classification: Administrative / Professional Salary Scale

Salary: $120000-$151719

Description:

The Chief of Public Relations serves as the primary spokesperson and communications strategist for the Fowler Elementary School District. This position is responsible for planning directing and implementing a comprehensive internal and external communications program that supports the Districts strategic goals. The Chief maintains a proactive transparent and effective relationship between the Governing Board Superintendent media community partners and parents. This individual provides executive-level counsel on crisis management public record compliance and community engagement to ensure a positive and consistent district image.

Qualifications:

• Masters degree in Education Administration or Communications is required.
• Five years of professional experience in public relations or communications management is preferred.
• Three years of experience in a leadership role within an Arizona public school district or municipality is preferred.
• Valid IVP Level One Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• Proficiency in advanced office software (Word Excel etc.) and digital communication tools (Social Media management Content Management Systems Mass Notification systems).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to manage high-pressure media inquiries.
• Strong organizational and planning skills for district-wide events and campaigns.
• Able to travel from site to site as required for the position.
• Valid Drivers license and a clean 36-month driving record required.
• Bilingual (Spanish) is highly preferred given the district demographic.
• Knowledge of Arizona Revised Statutes regarding Public Records (Title 39) and Open Meeting Laws.
• Knowledge of or willingness to become familiar with and implement district policies procedures rules and regulations.

Ability to:

• Prioritize work take initiative adhere to time restraints and attend to multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Work with detail while maintaining a high degree of accuracy in all public-facing content.
• Comprehend and perform functions from written and verbal instructions from the Superintendent.
• Identify sensitive issues and immediately inform the Superintendent of any adverse situation(s) or potential crises.
• Gather data compose draft and edit executive-level written work including press releases and board reports.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of staff student and family records in accordance with FERPA and district policy.
• Relate and respond tactfully and with courtesy to the media community leaders and district personnel.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide executive-level communication services and counsel to the Superintendent and Governing Board.
• Establish and support a welcoming school climate and culture through proactive community storytelling and branding.
• Compose and/or oversee the production of district-wide letters bulletins handbooks and digital newsletters.
• Serve as the Districts Public Information Officer (PIO) during emergencies coordinating real-time updates to parents and staff.
• Manage the districts website content and social media presence to ensure timely and accurate information.
• Coordinate and facilitate media coverage of district programs achievements and events.
• Oversee the processing and legal compliance of Public Records Requests.
• Function as a liaison between the District and local business partners and community organizations.
• Enter and manage department budgets and initiate purchase order requisitions as requested.
• Participate in district-sponsored professional development and represent the district at state-level PR associations.
• Support and follow the rules regulations and policies set by the School Board and District.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by the School Governing Board and Superintendent.

Length of Employment:

• Twelve (12) months

Reports to: Superintendent

Evaluation: Performance to be evaluated in accordance with Governing Board Policy GCO

Required Experience:

Chief