In a recent issue of the National School Public Relations Association’s newsletter, Pattonville School District in St. Ann, Missouri was cited for their “Top 10 List for Successful Communications.”   

Here are a few tips on how your district can become successful communicators: 

1. Communicate early and often.
2. Communicate face-to-face as often as possible.
3. Develop relationships with your community.
4. Start with your staff to be your ambassadors.
5. Insist on exemplary courtesy and customer service for all visitors, parents, and students.
6. Help parents understand the importance of their role in the education process and what their role is.
7. Be brief and to the point.
8. Never lie.
9. Do a good job.
10. Develop a communications plan.    

As part of the district’s communications plan, administrators should also distribute communication tips specifically for teachers.  For more information about NSPRA or to sign-up for their monthly newsletter visit http://www.nspra.org/.