Communicating with the Public: A Guide for School Leaders - Softcover

Various chapters address the communications roles of educators working in schools and those working in central offices. Here are the basics:

- Strategic communications planning. - Audience analysis. - Teamwork between schools and central offices. - Coordination with community relations offices. - Program evaluation.

Resources include a school climate checklist; tips for working with the news media; guidelines for conducting focus groups; and help with creating news releases, Web sites, and videos.

For those who have no training in journalism or who are uncomfortable with the self-promotional aspects of public relations, Meek points out the similarities between communications and teaching, in terms of analyzing the audience and shaping the messages accordingly. Whatever their level of experience, educators will gain the knowledge and confidence they need to create and implement an effective communications program.