Internal and External Communication Specialist

Stafford County Public Schools•Stafford, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Internal and External Communication Specialist supports the school division’s internal and external communication, engagement, outreach, and public records responsibilities as needed by assisting with the day-to-day maintenance of communication tools and platforms, including support for Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and related records coordination. The Internal and External Communications Specialist helps carry out activities that keep staff, families, the school community, and the public informed, engaged, and connected. Working under the direction of the Assistant Director of Digital Communication, the Internal and External Communications Specialist assists with implementing communication and outreach plans, supporting team projects, maintaining consistent messaging across digital platforms, and providing timely and accurate FOIA responses. Responsibilities include but are not limited to providing support for newsletters, websites, social media content, engagement events, FOIA records gathering and tracking, and other materials as required.

Requirements

High School Diploma or its equivalent
One (1) year of experience in communications, public relations, marketing, customer service or a related support role.
Appropriate professional English grammar, usage, spelling, punctuation, and publication.
Google Workspace applications including Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides, Google Meet, and Google Chat
Accessibility standards such as ADA, Section 508, and WCAG (basic understanding)
Basic content strategy for engagement
Fundamental understanding of Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requirements, public records principles, and records retention practices
Written communication for emails, memos, web content, and newsletters
Strong organizational and records management skills
Proofreading and editing of simple documents for clarity and correctness
Customer service and interpersonal communication with diverse audiences
File management and document organization (both electronic and paper)
Task prioritization and time management in fast-paced settings
Organizing, compiling, and formatting records for FOIA response purposes
Communicate clearly, effectively and courteously with staff, families, and the public
Follow oral and written instructions accurately
Remain calm and professional during time-sensitive or crisis situations, including FOIA deadlines
Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism in all communications and records handling
Work cooperatively in a team environment to meet goals
Organize and perform work independently
Meet deadlines for all work, including legally mandated FOIA timelines
Show sustained effort and enthusiasm in quality and quantity of work

Nice To Haves

Additional coursework or certifications related to clerical duties
Industry Licensure or Certifications
Design applications such as Adobe Creative Cloud (e.g., Photoshop, InDesign) and Canva

Responsibilities

Assist with the intake, logging, tracking, and coordinator of Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests in accordance with Virginia Code requirements and division procedures.
Support the collection, organization, and preparation of responsive records from internal departments and school-based staff.
Help ensure FOIA responses are timely, complete, and accurately compiled under the direction of supervisory staff.
Maintain confidentiality and appropriate handling of sensitive or exempt records in accordance with applicable laws and division policies.
Coordinate with departments to clarify requests, locate records, and support consistent interpretation of request scope.
Maintain accurate documentation and tracking of FOIA request status, deadlines, and fulfillment records for audit and reporting purposes.
Support internal and external communication initiatives.
Support implementation of communication and engagement plans for school division initiatives, events, and outreach campaigns.
Create and edit high-quality content for newsletters, websites, social media, speeches, talking points, and event materials following AP style and internal guidelines.
Align messaging and storytelling efforts across digital platforms, print, video, and community engagement channels in partnership with schools and departments.
Assist with the planning, promotion, and coordination of events to foster community involvement and increase participation.
Utilize social media trends and digital tools to enhance interactive storytelling, outreach, and real-time event promotion.
Track engagement and event outcomes to support continuous improvement of communication and outreach strategies.
Engage in ongoing professional development relevant to position, including FOIA training, records retention, and public information compliance.
Respond to written and oral requests for information, including FOIA-related inquiries, promptly and thoroughly in accordance with legal requirements and division procedures.
Engage in ongoing professional development relevant to position.
Respond to written and oral requests for information promptly and thoroughly.
Maintain a clean, neat appearance and dress appropriate to position and duties.
Maintain a record of appropriate attendance and punctuality.
Serve as a role model for students, colleagues, and the general public.
Work in close harmony with supervisor(s) and colleagues.
Comply with all division policies and regulations, including but not limited to guidelines for confidentiality and professional conduct, as well as all site-based procedures and protocols.