DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves responsibility for planning, coordinating and implementing informational services for a suburban school district. The incumbent prepares informational publications and works with the press, citizens groups, public officials, and other interested individuals in explaining the goals, objectives and features of a school system. Work is performed under the direct supervision of an administrative employee of higher rank. Supervision is exercised over subordinate clerical and technical employees. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
Writes, edits and compiles informational material in the form of pamphlets, reports and periodic bulletins for distribution; Writes news releases and submits photographs to newspapers;
Attends school board meetings, assemblies and related events to secure information and work out media coverage; Counsel with the Superintendent of Schools and other administrative officials on problems of school-community relations, assists in developing plans and programs to meet specific needs and representing the administration in the dissemination of information pertinent thereto;
Counsel with the administrative staff on the development and scheduling of special events or reports having public significance and assist in implementation as appropriate;
Develop and produce, or supervise the development and production of, informative communications, booklets, leaflets and other publications detailing programs and events;
Coordinate and supervise the preparation of news releases from administrative staff and distribute releases to appropriate media;
Establish and maintain procedures for prompt and continuing communication with appropriate administrators and news media regarding daily occurrences within the school system;
Establish and maintain procedures for prompt and courteous response to public, media and staff inquiries regarding the school district;
Coordinate with each school, procedures for communicating with the news media, staff and community; Accept and carry out such special assignments from the Superintendent of Schools as might be necessary from time to time in effective operation of the school district;
Supervise the maintenance on a weekly basis of a complete record of clippings from newspapers and other publications as they relate to the school district and public education in general;
Provides informational and educational services to the general public;
Answers correspondence and requests for information or articles;
Supervises work activities in school district central printing department;
Plans and erects school promotional displays;
Has responsibility for budget, supplies, inventory and maintenance for items related to the community relations department.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of public relations; thorough knowledge of the principles of journalism; good knowledge of the principles of good photography and their use in promotional and publicity work; knowledge of layout and design principles; ability to use computer word publishing software; skill in writing clearly and concisely; ability to develop and maintain harmonious relations with the press and the general public; resourcefulness; sound professional judgment; tact; courtesy: capable of performing the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.