WTNN0377398-0000
2026-07-01T00:00:00
2026-06-05T00:00:00
STATEMENT OF THE POSITION The Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications Specialist plays a key role in advancing the Watertown City School District’s mission of educating, inspiring, and empowering every student by enhancing internal and external communication. This position develops, implements, and manages districtwide communication strategies; supports transparent, proactive public relations; and builds community confidence through consistent messaging, storytelling, and stakeholder engagement. The Public Information Officer must uphold strict confidentiality at all times in accordance with district policies, state regulations, and federal law. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Key Responsibilities Communication & Media Relations Serve as the primary liaison between the District and the media, community organizations, and the public. Develop and maintain proactive communication strategies that inform and engage families, staff, and the community before issues arise. Write, edit, and distribute press releases, media advisories, speeches, and districtwide announcements. Coordinate media inquiries and ensure accurate, timely, and confidential information sharing, as appropriate. Assist in analyzing and explaining complex issues such as school budgets, student testing data, and more Monitor media coverage and maintain positive working relationships with local and regional media outlets. Exercise strict confidentiality when handling internal communication, sensitive issues, or student/staff-related matters. District Branding & Publications Develop and maintain a unified district brand identity across all communications. Produce digital and print materials including newsletters, brochures, flyers, annual reports, and event programs. Support promotional campaigns for staff recruitment, student enrollment, safety initiatives, and district events. Interact with students to highlight achievements, student voice, and positive messaging while adhering to privacy requirements. Digital Communication Manage, maintain, and regularly update the District website to ensure accuracy, clarity, and accessibility. Oversee district social media accounts and digital platforms, ensuring alignment with district values and data privacy expectations. Capture and curate photographs and videos highlighting student and staff accomplishments, district programs, and community events. Ensure all digital communications comply with Education Law §2-d, FERPA, district policy, and strict confidentiality standards. Community Engagement & Stakeholder Relations Partner with building leaders and departments to highlight achievements, programs, and events across the District. Prepare communication materials for Board of Education meetings, community forums, and public presentations. Assist in planning, promoting, and communicating community events, recognition ceremonies, and outreach campaigns. Develop effective communication pathways for a wide range of stakeholders, including families whose preferred language is not English. Foster productive relationships with parents, local agencies, community partners, and civic organizations. Crisis & Internal Communication Assist the Superintendent and District Safety Team with crisis communication during emergencies or urgent situations. Prepare statements, alerts, and coordinated updates for internal and external audiences. Maintain strict confidentiality around safety concerns, investigations, personnel matters, and any protected information. Support consistent internal communication to strengthen staff engagement, understanding of district initiatives, and policy awareness. Other Responsibilities Stay current on best practices in school communication, media relations, crisis communication, and public engagement. Participate in professional development related to public information, media, data privacy, and school communications. Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent of Schools. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills across multiple platforms and audiences. Proficiency in photography, videography, and digital content creation. Knowledge of website content management systems, social media management tools, and ADA accessibility standards. Ability to acquire knowledge of or display a thorough understanding of Education Law §2-d , FERPA , and all laws governing data privacy and student information. Demonstrated ability to maintain strict confidentiality in all aspects of work. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with diverse populations. Cultural competency and skill in communicating with stakeholders whose primary language is not English. Ability to work proactively, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Ability to collaborate with administrators, teachers, staff, students, families, and community members. Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships both internally and externally Ability to receive and incorporate feedback Familiarity with public education systems and New York State school district operations preferred. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, English/Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related field required. Minimum of three (3) years of successful experience in public relations, public information, communications, or related work; school or public agency experience preferred. Demonstrated success managing media relations, digital communication, and multi-platform messaging. Terms of Employment: Twelve (12) months, Confidential-affiliated position, Starting salary $75,000. EOE
Other
Watertown City School District
Northern
Contract