Public Relations and Communications Specialist

At Hopkins Public Schools, we believe that our strength lies in the diversity of our students, staff, and community. We are a proudly inclusive E-12 district serving approximately 7,200 students across the City of Hopkins and surrounding communities. Our district represents a rich mosaic of cultures, backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences; we value and celebrate that diversity in everything we do. As an academically rigorous and human-centered district, we are committed to fostering a welcoming environment where every student and staff member feels seen, heard, and valued. There is no "typical" Hopkins student, and we embrace this truth as a catalyst for innovation, growth, and equity in learning.

**We seek educators and staff who are equity-minded, culturally responsive, and deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where all learners can thrive.**

We welcome candidates who are passionate about dismantling systemic barriers, advancing justice, and preparing students to become bold, collaborative, and compassionate global citizens. When you join Hopkins Public Schools, you are not just joining a district, you are becoming part of a community that honors difference, nurtures potential, and inspires remarkable achievement in every learner, from birth through graduation.

**You are welcome at Hopkins. You belong at Hopkins.**

**SUMMARY:**

Develops and edits district stories, newsletters, and public relations materials; leads the day-to-day management of district website content; and supports clear, timely communications with families, staff, and the community.

**ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS**:

*This class specification lists the major duties and requirements of the job and is not all-inclusive.  Incumbent(s) may be expected to perform job-related duties other than those contained in this document and may be required to have specific job-related knowledge and skills.*

* Leads day-to-day management of district website content by writing, editing, organizing, and updating information to keep it accurate, easy to find, and accessible in accordance with ADA requirements.
* Analyze website and social media analytics to evaluate audience engagement, identify trends, and inform communications strategies.
* Provides training and user support to district staff on website use and branding guidelines; oversees all website contributors; and supports new development initiatives.
* Manages and builds forms to collect data; assists in data extraction.
* Assists the Director of Communications and Marketing with crisis communications, including drafting and updating messages for families, staff, media, and the community as situations develop.
* Identifies story opportunities; interviews students, staff, and other sources; and
* writes, edits,and proofs content for the website, newsletters, media, and other district channels.
* Assists with drafting, reviewing, and sending districtwide email and mass notifications to families and staff, including time-sensitive updates.
* Takes and selects photographs for district communications and maintains an organized photo collection in accordance with district procedures.
* Drafts press releases, statements, talking points, and other public relations materials. Supports the director in responding to media requests and communicating about emerging or sensitive issues.
* Manages district social media channels and maintains an editorial calendar to plan and publish timely stories, updates, and announcements.
* Aligns communications & public relations efforts with District goals & key messages.
* Develops and executes communications campaigns and strategies for the district and individual schools.
* Maintains editorial and branding policies, procedures, and standards.
* Develops and edits graphics for print and web.
* Designs, from start to finish, promotional materials such as brochures, catalogs, and postcards.
* Evaluates public relations programs and develops recommendations for changes and improvements; collects and analyzes program and participant data and develops recommendations to improve program quality.
* Initiates communication audits and utilizes results to implement strategic change.
* Promotes and supports the overall mission of the District by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with public and staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.

**QUALIFICATIONS:**

*To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.*

**Education and Experience:**

* Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, journalism, marketing, or a closely related field.
* One (1) years of professional communications experience.
* OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

**Required Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:**

*Continued employment is contingent upon all required licenses and certificates being maintained in active status without suspension or revocation.*

* Driver's license.

**Required Knowledge and Skills**

Required Knowledge:

* Strong writing, editing, interviewing, proofreading, and storytelling skills.
* Applies AP style and district editorial guidelines to written communications.
* Ability to manage website content and learn new digital publishing tools.
* Knowledge of public relations, journalism, and communications practices.
* Ability to organize information for different audiences and communication channels.
* Sound judgment when handling sensitive information and time-sensitive communications.
* Ability to manage multiple deadlines, seek appropriate approvals, and collaborate with staff across the district.
* Ability to use photography and basic content performance data to strengthen communications.
* Clear and effective verbal communication and commitment to the district's mission and values.

Required Skills:

* Analyzing communication needs and developing practical solutions.
* Using initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines, particularly when handling sensitive or time-sensitive information.
* Preparing advertising and creative media information for diverse audiences.
* Using standard and specialized communications software.
* Managing content across digital channels, including websites, social media, electronic newsletters, and mass notifications.
* Communicating effectively and collaborating with staff across the district.
* Managing multiple projects and deadlines while contributing to team goals.
* Performing responsibilities in a manner consistent with the District's mission and Core Values.

**PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:**

*The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.*

Mobility to work in an office setting, use standard office equipment and stamina to sit for extended periods of time; strength to lift and carry up to 20 pounds; vision to read printed materials and computer screens; and hearing and speech to communicate in person or over the telephone.  

**WORKING ENVIRONMENT:**

Work is performed in an office setting.

Occasional travel required to locations throughout the District.

**Schedule:** 1.0 FTE, 52 Weeks, 40 hours per week, 261 Days
**Bargaining Group/Contract:** UnAffiliated

**Salary Range:** $71,235.77 - $89,745.22
Position specific Benefits information is available [HERE](https://www.hopkinsschools.org/contact/careers)
Union Contracts, Position Handbook/Agreements are located [HERE](https://www.hopkinsschools.org/contact/careers)