Dorchester County Public Schools is hiring: Public Relations and Communications

Dorchester County Public Schools is currently accepting applications for a Public Relations and Communications Specialist. This position requires a highly skilled and dedicated individual who will develop and execute effective strategies that foster a positive image for DCPS, increase stakeholder awareness and communication, and cultivate strong relationships with media outlets and local businesses. This position also supplies resources to the Office of the Superintendent of Schools, as needed.

DUTIES:

* Create promotional materials to market DCPS through a variety of media outlets.

* Cultivate strong relationships with media outlets, journalists, community and public interest groups to ensure efficient communication and maximum coverage of DCPS.

* Develop strategies and public relation campaigns aimed at increasing brand awareness.

* Ensure website information and banners are current and up to date.

* Develop internal communication structures to inform employees of various organizational activities.

* In collaboration with administration, manage community outreach and periodic updates of the District Strategic Plan to all stakeholders

* Disseminate and publicize the teacher of the year and support person of the year programs and be the liaison with the MSDE TOY Program.

* Perform the function of assisting the main Web Master for the DCPS school system website and create and maintain social media accounts (i.e. Facebook and Twitter, etc.) Serve as a resource for the school-based web masters and create and conduct appropriate training.

* Work directly with the Superintendent of Schools in the area of communications, primarily writing and editing presentations and other publications, and including but not limited to, video, photography and podcasts.

* Draft and send press releases and other communications to print and broadcast media outlets when required.

* Serves as the point person for Public Information Act (PIA) requests.

* Perform other tasks and assume other responsibilities in support of the school system communication and public information function.

QUALIFICATIONS:

* Bachelor's degree in public relations, journalism, marketing or relevant field.

* Demonstrates proficiency in computer and word processing skills, especially Microsoft Office Suite applications (Word, Publisher, Excel, Outlook Calendar, and PowerPoint).

* Demonstrates proficiency with social media (Instagram, Meta Platforms, and X)

* Exceptional written skills and public speaking skills.

* Excellent knowledge of public relations best practices, brand management, and media strategies.

* Proficiency in proofreading and editing confidential documents is a must.

* Ability to deal effectively with the public and school personnel. Must be pleasant and professional.

* Ability to apply Board policy to daily work decisions, exercise good judgment, courtesy, and tact in dealing with people on the telephone and in person.

* Must be able to work independently on routine, complex and confidential tasks.

* Experience with photography, videography and video editing preferred.

* Ability to maintain confidentiality.

* Self-motivated, ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects

* Work flexible hours-evenings and weekends, attend Board of Education and other meetings and functions.