Job Title: Chief of Public Relations
Classification: Administrative / Professional Salary Scale
Salary: $120,000-$151,719
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 District’s 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:
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Master’s degree in Education Administration or Communications is required.
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Five years of professional experience in public relations or communications management is preferred.
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Three years of experience in a leadership role within an Arizona public school district or municipality is preferred.
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Valid IVP Level One Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card.
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Proficiency in advanced office software (Word, Excel, etc.) and digital communication tools (Social Media management, Content Management Systems, Mass Notification systems).
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Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage high-pressure media inquiries.
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Strong organizational and planning skills for district-wide events and campaigns.
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Able to travel from site to site as required for the position.
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Valid Driver’s license and a clean 36-month driving record required.
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Bilingual (Spanish) is highly preferred given the district demographic.
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Knowledge of Arizona Revised Statutes regarding Public Records (Title 39) and Open Meeting Laws.
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Knowledge of or willingness to become familiar with and implement district policies, procedures, rules, and regulations.
Ability to:
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Prioritize work, take initiative, adhere to time restraints, and attend to multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
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Work with detail while maintaining a high degree of accuracy in all public-facing content.
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Comprehend and perform functions from written and verbal instructions from the Superintendent.
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Identify sensitive issues and immediately inform the Superintendent of any adverse situation(s) or potential crises.
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Gather data, compose, draft, and edit executive-level written work, including press releases and board reports.
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Maintain strict confidentiality of staff, student, and family records in accordance with FERPA and district policy.
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Relate and respond tactfully and with courtesy to the media, community leaders, and district personnel.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
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Provide executive-level communication services and counsel to the Superintendent and Governing Board.
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Establish and support a welcoming school climate and culture through proactive community storytelling and branding.
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Compose and/or oversee the production of district-wide letters, bulletins, handbooks, and digital newsletters.
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Serve as the District’s Public Information Officer (PIO) during emergencies, coordinating real-time updates to parents and staff.
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Manage the district’s website content and social media presence to ensure timely and accurate information.
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Coordinate and facilitate media coverage of district programs, achievements, and events.
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Oversee the processing and legal compliance of Public Records Requests.
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Function as a liaison between the District and local business partners and community organizations.
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Enter and manage department budgets and initiate purchase order requisitions as requested.
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Participate in district-sponsored professional development and represent the district at state-level PR associations.
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Support and follow the rules, regulations, and policies set by the School Board and District.
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Perform all other duties as assigned by the School Governing Board and Superintendent.
Length of Employment:
Reports to: Superintendent
Evaluation: Performance to be evaluated in accordance with Governing Board Policy GCO
