Specialist: Communications Engagement

Anne Arundel County Public Schools•Annapolis, MD

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Assists the Chief Communications Officer and Executive Director, Communications & Community Engagement in a variety of professional level tasks relating to the functions and services of the Communications & Community Engagement Division of the school system. Develops and executes strategic communications initiatives that increase engagement with students, employees, families, schools, and the broader community. Serves as a district storyteller by identifying, developing, and sharing compelling stories that highlight the people, programs, achievements, and opportunities that define Anne Arundel County Public Schools. Works collaboratively with schools and Central Office departments to produce both internal and external high-quality multimedia content that strengthens public trust, celebrates student and staff success, and advances the district's strategic priorities.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Journalism, English or related field of education from a regionally accredited college or university required; Or an equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities deemed sufficient to prepare the employee to successfully perform the duties of the position.
Two (2) years relevant professional experience in communications, education, or other related areas required; Project management experience preferred; Or an equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities deemed sufficient to prepare the employee to successfully perform the duties of the position.
Demonstrated storytelling skills and ability to write and edit professional publications and news feature articles.
Understanding of media relations, engagement strategies, and student-centered communication planning.
Demonstrated proficiency with core social media platforms in a workplace setting.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities, seek support from team members, and take initiative with limited supervision.
Ability to produce multimedia content including photography, videography, and social media content.
Ability to effectively present program initiatives and information to a variety of audiences (i.e., Board of Education, directors, executive staff, school faculties, higher education, business & industry, parent/community groups, and the Press).
Demonstrated ability to effectively work and communicate with diverse populations.
Ability to develop authentic narratives that reflect diverse voices and experiences using thorough research and intuitive interview skills.
Demonstrated proficiency with business technology applications (e.g. Video/Web Conferencing, Microsoft Office Suite - Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Copilot preferred).

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of K-12 school organization and administration, preferred.

Responsibilities

Identifies, researches, and develops compelling stories that showcase the accomplishments, innovation, and impact of AACPS students, employees, schools, programs, and community partnerships.
Contacts and works closely with school-based and Central Office administrators, supervisors, faculty, and other staff members to obtain information on current events, activities, programs, and other topics of general interest to the public.
Works proactively to identify newsworthy stories and emerging trends that reflect district priorities.
Works with Communications Division Student Intern Program, providing comprehensive internship and apprenticeship opportunities to AACPS high school students that immerses them in media-related projects and activities.
Assists the Chief Communications Officer and Executive Director, Communications & Community Engagement with the development of communications plans and engagement programs that highlight student and staff talents, achievement, and expression.
Assists in the designing and maintenance of digital platforms dedicated to student voice and representation.
Creates engaging content for district websites, social media platforms, newsletters, publications, video productions, podcasts, and emerging digital communication channels for internal and external communications purposes.
Contributes to and supports public relations activities as necessitated by correspondence and telephone inquiries.
In conjunction with Communications & Community Engagement Division colleagues, disseminates news and other information to targeted audiences through variety of online avenues, including social media.
Provides technical assistance to school-based and Central Office administrators, supervisors, faculty and other staff members concerning communications efforts.
Researches, drafts, edits, and contributes to the development of media inquiries, speeches, presentations, publications, and other communications materials as assigned.
Performs other related duties as assigned within the same classification or lower.