25-26 Director of Communications

Norman Public Schools
Communications Director Job Description
 

Position Summary
The Director of Communications works with members of the communications team and district departments to align communication efforts with the district’s mission. This position provides leadership in crafting and delivering accurate, timely information to families, staff, and the community. The Director develops and implements strategic communication plans and ensures consistent messaging across all platforms.

Essential Duties

• Develop and implement strategic communication plans for district initiatives and priorities

• Supervise and evaluate communications team members, including the digital media specialist and graphic designer, ensuring alignment with department goals and expectations.

• Serve as the initial point of contact for news media and coordinate media responses with district leaders

• Produce and distribute news releases and media advisories

• Proactively pitch positive stories and coordinate media coverage of district events and programs

• Create press kits and handle sensitive or complex media inquiries

• Coordinate crisis and incident communications, ensuring accurate and timely updates

• Support district leaders in responding to media inquiries, public concerns, and staff questions

• Provide professional public relations counsel to the superintendent, Cabinet, Board of Education, and site leaders

• Recommend communication strategies for various media formats and audiences

• Serve as a liaison between school and district leaders and the media

• Maintain brand consistency and promote district values and initiatives

• Respond to requests for public information in accordance with policy and legal requirements

• Support and help implement the district’s crisis communication plan

• Oversee content development for the district website, social media, video, newsletters, and other platforms

• Provide strategic direction for social media strategy, publishing schedules, and audience engagement

• Monitor social media performance and guide adjustments to increase effectiveness

• Collaborate with internal teams to produce engaging, community-building content

• Work with team members to support digital marketing and outreach for recruitment and retention

• Facilitate staff development on media relations and effective communication practices

• Support district and administrative event fundraising as appropriate

• Perform other duties as assigned
   

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field

• At least 5 years of relevant professional experience

• Strong technical writing and AP Style proficiency

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Understanding of public engagement and two-way communication strategies

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and coordinate team efforts
   

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in K-12 or public education environments

• Familiarity with FERPA and other relevant school communication guidelines

• Advanced public speaking and presentation skills

• Experience supervising or leading a team, including evaluating performance and supporting professional development
   

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal skills and customer service orientation

• Professional demeanor and ability to interact confidently with the public and media

• Initiative, creativity, and strong problem-solving skills

• Ability to follow district safety protocols and professional standards, including attendance, dress, and conduct

• Physical requirements include the ability to sit, speak, hear, and use hands regularly; occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds; ability to adjust visual focus as needed