POSITION SUMMARY: The Assistant Director of Community Relations plans, implements, and oversees internal and external communications and public relations efforts for the Hudson School District. This role advances the district’s mission and vision by ensuring timely, accurate, transparent, and engaging communication with staff, families, students, media, and the broader community. Responsibilities include strategic communications planning, media relations, digital content management, community outreach, crisis communications support, and coordination of community education communications.
ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:
- Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, education, or a related field
- Demonstrated professional writing and editing experience across multiple platforms
- Experience working with the public, media, and community stakeholders
- Knowledge of local media, community issues, governmental entities, and public-sector communication practices
- Experience in communications or public relations (Preferred)
- Skills
- Exceptional written, verbal, and visual communication skills
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills; ability to work effectively with diverse audiences
- Ability to remain calm, professional, and effective under pressure
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
- Independent problem-solving skills and sound professional judgment
- Ability to gather, analyze, and interpret data from varied sources
- Flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced, evolving communication environment
- Ability to set priorities and respond to changing needs and urgent situations
- Willingness to be accessible outside of regular work hours when necessary
- Proficiency with standard office equipment, communication software, website platforms, and digital tools
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Strategic & District Communications
- Develops and executes comprehensive communication strategies that support district initiatives, priorities, and goals
- Oversees internal and external communications to ensure consistent, accurate, and timely messaging
- Advises and supports district leadership in promoting a positive, transparent, and credible public image
- Supports the Superintendent and administrative team with message development, talking points, and communication planning
- Digital, Media & Content Management
- Tells the district’s story using a variety of platforms, including social media, video, podcasts, newsletters, email, web content, and emerging communication tools
- Manages and maintains district website content to ensure accessibility, accuracy, and relevance
- Oversees district branding, visual identity, and messaging consistency across all platforms and materials
- Develops and distributes newsletters, reports, board highlights, informational materials, and marketing collateral
- Monitors traditional media, social media, blogs, and online discussions related to district initiatives and issues
- Media Relations & Community Engagement
- Serves as a primary point of contact for media inquiries; coordinates interviews and media access
- Proactively builds and maintains relationships with local and regional media outlets
- Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to strengthen relationships and support district objectives
- Assists with referenda and other public information campaigns, ensuring compliance with legal and policy requirements
- Crisis Communications
- Assists district leadership in developing and implementing crisis communication plans
- Supports rapid, accurate communication during emergencies or sensitive situations
- Ensures messaging during crises is coordinated, factual, and aligned with district protocols
- Analysis, Evaluation & Continuous Improvement
- Compiles and analyzes data and research from multiple sources to inform communication strategies
- Evaluates the effectiveness of communication efforts and recommends improvements
- Stays current with best practices, trends, and tools in public-sector and education communications
- Professional Responsibilities
- Presents information to staff, families, and community groups as needed
- Attends Board of Education meetings, committee meetings, and district events as required
- Participates in professional development, trainings, workshops, and seminars
- Responds professionally and promptly to internal and external inquiries and concerns
- Maintains the highest level of confidentiality, professionalism, and discretion
- Works independently while collaborating closely with district leadership and staff
- Performs other duties as assigned by the Superintendent or designee
REPORTS TO: Superintendent of Schools