Primary Purpose

Write, edit, design and prepare district materials for internal and external communications on a daily basis. Provide support of the district’s strategic communications and media relations initiatives. Create and regularly update content for district social media sites, website and all digital media.

Minimum Qualifications

Education/Certification  

Bachelor’s degree from accredited university

Candidate must have satisfactory outcome of fingerprinting background check. Non-refundable fee (approximately $50.00) paid by the employee.

Knowledge/Skills

Strong written and oral communication skills

Strong organizational, communications, and interpersonal skills

Use technology to design and produce district publications

Proficient in writing, proofreading and editing in Associated Press (AP) writing style

Strong ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline and detail-oriented environment

Previous exposure to news media including writing news releases and basic interviewing skills

Strong photography and/or videography skills

Knowledge and experience in Social Media

Experience:

Three (3) years’ of experience in communications-related field(s) such as media relations, public relations, journalism or related field

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

(The following statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned and should not be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions that may be assigned or skills that may be required).

Professionalism

The Educators' Code of Ethics is set forth in Texas Administrative Code to provide rules for standard practices and ethical conduct toward students, professional colleagues, school officials, parents, and members of the community. 

• Rule §247.1 Purpose and Scope; Definitions
• Rule §247.2 Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators

Communications

The coordinator promotes a positive tone for school and community relations through activities such as the following: 

• Write, edit, design and prepare district materials for internal and external communications on a daily basis.
• Regularly publish articles and photos in local media and other publications.
• Assist with media relations by coordinating interviews, writing news releases and researching topics to generate positive media coverage.
• Work with DVISD departments to design, prepare, and edit district publications including newsletters, recruitment brochures, programs for special events, and other publications.
• Assist school personnel to publicize and promote any performances, exhibitions, displays, or special programs sponsored by the schools.
• Create and regularly update content for district social media sites, website and all digital media.
• Photograph/video events.
• Provide for two-way communication with community, parents, principals, teachers, and staff.
• Use effective communication strategies in working with staff, parents, community and media.
• Assist with coordination and execution of district events, i.e., student/staff recognition.
• Assist in providing support during emergency and/or crisis situations.
• Articulate the district’s mission to the community and solicit its support in realizing the mission
• Address business and parent inquiries regarding the department and various campuses
• Project a positive image to the schools and the community
• Maintain a professional level of confidentiality regarding all district matters.
• Maintain a flexible schedule before, during and after traditional workday.
• Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.  

Organization Management

The coordinator manages administrative, fiscal, and facilities functions responsibly through activities such as the following:

• Work with campus principals, teachers, and staff in all areas of communications.
• Interpret policy, procedures, and data.
• Assist in the development and publication of reports related to the performance of the district and articulate district goals and objectives.
• Follow budgets and cost estimates based on documented program needs.  

Professional Growth and Development

The coordinator provides leadership in professional growth and development through activities such as the following:

• Develop training options and/or improvement plan to ensure exemplary operation of the communications function.
• Participate in state level organizations to stay abreast of latest research and best practices.
• Read, synthesize, and disseminate professional research and information related to best practices.
• Participate in all required meetings and professional development opportunities to improve job-related skills.  

Qualities of an Effective Coordinator

The coordinator exhibits the following qualities:  

• Daily attendance and punctuality at work are essential functions of the job.
• Be able to work tactfully and efficiently despite pressure situations and frequent interruptions.
• Application of current communication tools and standards.
• Comply with district and campus policies and procedures, as well as state and federal laws and regulations.
• Comply with the standards of conduct set out in Board Policy DH (Legal) and (Local) and with any other policies, regulations, and guidelines that impose duties, requirements, or standards.
• Demonstrate a high level of personal integrity, a collaborative leadership style, and high ethical standards.
• Compile, maintain and file all reports, records, and other required documents.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by Director of Communications and Community Relations or designee.
• Maintain confidentiality.  

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None  

Equipment:

Personal computer, printer, scanner, copier, fax machine, shredder, calculator, telephone, digital camera, video camera, and CD burner.

Working Conditions

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:  

• Maintain emotional control under stress.
• Work with frequent interruptions and maintain emotional control under stress.
• Repetitive hand motions; prolonged sitting and prolonged use of computer.
• Work irregular and extended work hours to include weekends as needed.
• May require prolonged use of computer, moderate standing, stooping, bending, and lifting.
• Frequent district wide travel.
• Occasional statewide travel.
• Frequent exposure to: temperature extremes (hot and cold), humidity extremes, noise, low or intense illumination vibration. Occasional exposure to: biological hazards (communicable diseases, bacteria, insects, mold, fungi, etc.), work outside, work around moving objects or vehicles, work on uneven surfaces.  

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.