School PR Drive Time - The NCSPRA Podcast

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#SchoolPR Drive Time is a podcast of NCSPRA, the NC School Public Relations Association, about driving the narrative in support of public education. Visit our home page at www.ncspra.org for general information and membership resources to serve the School PR professional in NC Public Schools. Thank you for sharing the podcast!

NCSPRA


    • Feb 4, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 36m AVG DURATION
    • 50 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from School PR Drive Time - The NCSPRA Podcast

    School PR Drive Time Episode 49: "All Means All" Melissa Mertz + Tom Arcuri, ParentSquare

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 29:12


    Vendor partners and sponsors of NCSPRA and School PR Drive Time bring valuable insights and innovations to the market, and also to our podcast. Thank you to ParentSquare for supporting this podcast and the work of our organization in the 2024-2025 school year. In this chat with Kevin Smith (Orange County Schools), Senior Product Manager Melissa Mertz and Regional Vice President Tom Arcuri lay out the ParentSquare vision for "All Means All" and a truly equitable approach to school communications at every level, from the classroom to the central office. Listen in and share this content to expand your leadership vision of what is possible for school leaders and communicators with an ever-changing and advancing array of tools at your disposal. - Imagine beyond your existing or future template, to envision a website can do if it evolves constantly to meet your community's needs. - Consider what schools and families could do with two-way communications not just through another app, but with every email and text message sent by schools and the district translated into each user's language in real time. - And with ADA guidelines and deadlines both looming large on the landscape, listen in to learn about the far-reaching support available to website designers in 2025 and beyond. Professional learning is available from ParentSquare to back up all this talk as well: On February 6 at 2:00pm ET, ParentSquare will host a Spotlight Series webinar (open to all by special request) about accessibility in website design and school communications: https://parentsquare.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_re_EbSvYQluLYpzrqW4mBQ#/registration And March 18 at 12:00pm ET, ParentSquare will host an NCSPRA Lunch & Learn targeting one of the most critical needs for schools today: "Family Engagement Strategies to disrupt the prediction around chronic absenteeism" https://www.ncspra.org/post-details/~board/ncspra-announcements/post/ncspra-announces-new-free-pd-for-2025 Register ahead to reserve your seat today! Thanks to our industry partners for bringing their insights from classroom teaching and education technology to the show for our listeners, and thanks again ParentSquare for supporting School PR Drive Time. Learn more and contact them at www.parentsquare.com. Music: "Hip Jazz," bensound.com, all other content © 2025, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 48: Stuff That Works, Works! Susan Allred and Dr. Bev Emory Britton

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2025 36:40


    In our first episode of a new 2025 season, hosts Ellen Boyd (NCSPRA Executive Director) and Kevin Smith (Orange County Schools) chat with Susan Allred and Dr. Beverly Emory Britton, co-authors of a new book that is quickly becoming a standard text for educators now preparing to lead in a time of rapidly shape-shifting challenges. In "Stuff That Works, Works!" our guests, good friends and richly experienced education leaders at the local and state level, argue that in uncertain times, truth and hope remain as the constant anchors for schools and school leaders. Through systems of continuous improvement focused on serving each and every child, leaders ensure the quality and efficacy of public schools for the communities they serve and help to build. Their stories in this episode are just a sampling of what readers will find in the book, which was published in late 2024. Their own experiences and interviews with education leaders from North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, and Kentucky are the subject of this text which is already assigned reading for doctoral students at High Point University and the subject of book clubs and discussions bringing educators together. Susan Allred is a mentor in continuous improvement processes, having served public schools for 42 years. After working as a teacher and administrator, she came out of retirement to help improve low-performing schools across Kentucky in the administration of commissioner Dr. Terry Holliday. She lives in the mountains of North Carolina. Dr. Beverly Emory Britton is a leadership coach for public schools, having served public schools for 41 years. Following her tenure as a teacher, principal, PIO, and superintendent, Dr. Emory (or "Bev") served as Deputy Superintendent in the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and a leader for school communicators and administrators in our state during change management processes that included the state's response to COVID-19. She lives on the coast of North Carolina. We are grateful to these stars of education leadership for sharing their wisdom and insights with the show. Thanks to Pixevety for their support of School PR Drive Time. Music: "Hip Jazz," bensound.com, all other content © 2024, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 47: Prioritizing Health And Wellness with Dr. Baron Davis

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2024 32:39


    In today's episode, we are chatting with Dr. Baron Davis – Founder & CEO of The Noegenesis Group – a solution-focused and outcomes-driven educational think tank and consulting firm. Dr. Davis served as superintendent for seven years in South Carolina's Richland District Two, where he was honored by our national organization with the Bob Grossman Leadership in School Communications Award. When he spoke to everyone gathered for the 2021 NSPRA National Seminar, Dr. Davis left a lasting impression on all of us with a very simple question, that we will ask today. Additionally, last November, Dr. Davis was the keynote speaker at the SC-NSPRA fall conference, and he regularly addresses professionals in education leadership. Dr. Davis covered a number of topics but his presentation on maintaining physical and mental wellness in this stressful industry resonated with us. Most importantly, he will explain the 10-finger down challenge and how we can facilitate this poignant exercise in our districts. Thanks to Finalsite for their support of School PR Drive Time. Music: "Hip Jazz," bensound.com, all other content © 2024, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 46: AI and the Future of Marketing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2024 42:45


    In today's episode, we are tackling artificial intelligence and the future of marketing. As an emerging technology, there is no denying the impact AI will have on our personal and professional lives. Whether Chat GPT is writing copy for us (should it be writing copy for us?) or AI helping us parse social media metrics to make strategic marketing decisions, it feels like the sky's the limit! Joining me today to unpack this subject are two professors from the University of Texas Austin. Professor Tracy Arrington and Professor Glenn Griffin. Professor Arrington specializes in marketing and AI and Professor Griffin specializes in teaching and development of creativity in advertising and is currently navigating the impact of AI on the industry and how students should think about it. Thanks to Peachjar for their support of School PR Drive Time. Music: "Hip Jazz," bensound.com, all other content ©2024, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 45: Staff Recruitment Strategies from the Corporate World

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2024 27:22


    In today's episode, we are tackling the topic of staff retention and recruitment. This is always a hot topic throughout the school year and many school systems face staffing shortages and challenges at some point. How are our teachers and support staff finding our jobs, can the process be improved, and what can we do to help support a wonderful and diverse culture and environment where staff can thrive?! Joining me today is my friend and former newsroom colleague Scott Dobroski. Scott and I started our careers in television in Nebraska. He's now the VP of Global Corporate Communications for Indeed. As his job straddles both communications and staffing, we are so excited to hear his perspective and best practices from the corporate world. Thanks to Finalsite for their support of School PR Drive Time. Music: "Hip Jazz," bensound.com, all other content ©2023, NCSPRA'

    School PR Drive Time Episode 44: NSPRA 2023 Communication Technology Award for Superintendents

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2023 45:23


    In Episode 44 of #SchoolPR DriveTime, we will hear from Superintendent Jason Manuel and Kate Crowder, Communications Supervisor both of Germantown Municipal School District in Tennessee. Mr. Manuel was selected as the recipient of the NSPRA 2023 Communication Technology Award for Superintendents. The award recognizes one district leader annually for leadership in redefining, upgrading, and integrating cutting-edge communication technology to improve and expand outreach and engagement with internal and external education stakeholders. In this conversation, we want to learn more about these efforts, their effectiveness, and how they can be duplicated in other school systems. Thanks to Rhodes Branding for their support of School PR Drive Time. Music: "Hip Jazz," bensound.com, all other content ©2023, NCSPRA'

    School PR Drive Time Episode 43: Earning A Seat At The Leadership Table

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2023 42:08


    In today's episode, we are tackling the topic of earning a seat at the leadership table within your organization. Whether you are the communications director or a valued member of the team, are you all part of high level decision making and are you in a position to provide your unique PR and stakeholder engagement perspective when high level conversations are happening? Our guests are Cindy Warner, APR, NSPRA's Southeast Region Vice President, and Shayla Cannady, fellow NCSPRA board member and Chief Communications Officer for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Thanks to Rhodes Branding for their support of School PR Drive Time. Music: "Hip Jazz," bensound.com, all other content ©2023, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 42: Rick Kaufman/ Navigating the Storm: Leading Through Chaos

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2023 43:34


    In today's episode, we're so excited to speak to a legend in the school PR space. Rick Kaufman is the Executive Director of Community Relations and Emergency Management for Bloomington (MN) Public Schools. Rick is a nationally respected consultant and trainer on emergency management and crisis communications, having worked in public schools and emergency management for more than 30 years. Rick is also the 2023 NSPRA Presidents Award winner! He has been on our guest list here at School PR Drive Time for quite a while because everyone who knows Rick knows he is truly a trailblazer and a model of all things school PR, and we are just so excited to have this conversation! Today's episode is sponsored by Granicus. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 41: Kathleen Kennedy/Center for Communication and Engagement

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2023 25:43


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. In today's episode, we're getting to know Kathleen Kennedy, APR. Kathleen is the President of the Center for Communication and Engagement Kathleen works with schools across the country on everything from Crisis Communication to Bond referendums. She also provides professional development for educators and school PR Pros alike. Today, we are going to cover two relevant and relatable topics-Leadership in Education and Leadership in Chaos. Find Kathleen here: Website www.okcce.com Twitter Handle @KennedyAPR Instagram Handle Alwaysontherecord Facebook URL https://www.facebook.com/okcce LinkedIn URL https://www.linkedin.com/company/okcce YouTube Channel @centerforcommunicationenga2159 Today's episode is sponsored by Voly. Call 214-818-9855 or email schools@voly.org to learn more. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 40: Getting the Shot- 2022 Blue Ribbon Best of the Best in Photography

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2023 30:49


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. In today's episode, we are diving into the topic of great storytelling through great photos! Joining us is Tony Cunningham, digital communications specialist at Durham Public Schools. Tony's photo is a 2022 NCSPRA Blue Ribbon award winner and a 2022 Best of the Best winner in that category. Check out this project here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ONlfBmyjHd3xlcC85CF1YrTyR9dtweTh Connect with us: NCSPRA.org Please give this podcast five stars, and share it with your colleagues and friends! Today's episode is sponsored by Parent Square Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA

    School Pr Drive Time Episode 39: Inside a Communications Audit

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2023 32:30


    In today's episode, we are exploring the topic of Communications Audits- why do they matter, how do you do one, and how can audits make us more effective communicators? Our guests today are NSPRA's Associate Director Mellissa Braham, APR, and Communication Audit Surveys Manager, Naomi Hunter, APR. Learn more: https://www.nspra.org/PR-Resources/Request-a-Communication-Audit Today's episode is sponsored by Peachjar Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 38: '22 Best of the Best Blue Ribbon Events- Cumberland Co.

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2023 32:52


    In today's episode, we are getting an inside peak into an expansive marketing and event campaign that earned a 2022 Best of the Best designation as part of the NCSPRA Blue Ribbon Awards. Our guests are Dr. Lindsay Whitley and Ms. Renarta Moyd of Cumberland County Schools. Cumberland has earned multiple Best of the Best awards for their strategy and attention to detail that makes special projects and events successful! Today's episode is sponsored by Parent Square Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 37: Good Trouble PR

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2023 36:25


    In today's episode, we are exploring how school communicators can play a positive role in shining a light on diversity and inclusion best practices in our school systems. Joining us for this conversation are two members of the Minnesota School Public Relations Association (MinnSPRA) board who have tackled this challenge head on with the creation of Good Trouble PR. Dirk Tedmon, Executive Director of Marketing & Communications for Eden Prairie schools and Toya Stewart Downey, Executive Director of Strategic Communications, Equity and Inclusion from Robbinsdale Area Schools will unpack this complicated topic and provide school PR practitioners with practical information to help them be a part of this movement for justice! Today's episode is sponsored by Finalsite Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA

    School Pr Drive Time Episode 36: Lessons Learned in Crisis Communications (Pt. 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2023 20:08


    In today's episode, we continue exploring the topic of crisis management and crisis communications and important lessons learned. Joining us is August Vernon, the Director of the Forsyth County Office of Emergency Management in Winston-Salem, NC. I experienced a presentation that he recently made to first responders in Western North Carolina about active shooter response training. He also teaches classes for public information officers. Today, he's going to share a behind-the-scenes look at how emergency management and communications go hand in hand and some important lessons learned in over 30 years of public safety and emergency management experience. This is part 2 of 2. Today's episode is sponsored by Granicus Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 35: Lessons Learned in Crisis Communications (Pt.1)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2023 32:11


    In today's episode, we are exploring the topic of crisis management and crisis communications and important lessons learned. Joining us is August Vernon, the Director of the Forsyth County Office of Emergency Management in Winston-Salem, NC. I experienced a presentation that he recently made to first responders in Western North Carolina about active shooter response training. He also teaches classes for public information officers. Today, he's going to share a behind-the-scenes look at how emergency management and communications go hand in hand and some important lessons learned in over 30 years of public safety and emergency management experience. This is part 1 of 2. Today's episode is sponsored by Granicus Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 34: Andrea Gribble, "Social Media for Schools" Book Launch

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2023 31:05


    In today's episode, we'll be chatting with Andrea Gribble about her first book that just launched: Social Media for Schools: Proven Storytelling Strategies & Ideas to CelebrateYour Students & Staff — While Keeping Your Sanity. Social media is an ever changing landscape, and as school communicators, we may struggle to post content, generate content, and then get that content in front of the right audience. Take a look at the book>>>> https://socialschool4edu.com/book/ From the Author: “Social Media for Schools” is the ultimate handbook for school communicators. With practical tips and real-life examples, this value-packed book provides a proven framework to help social media managers celebrate their school on social media without losing their sanity. From insider secrets to case studies, this book offers everything you need to establish a consistent identity for your school, create content management strategies, and write engaging captions. Learn how to manage social media without it managing you! Today's episode is sponsored by Peachjar. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 33: Communication Technology Award for Superintendents

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2023 38:40


    *Note that this episode was recorded before Blackboard and Finalsite merged. This NSPRA Award was originally co-sponsored by Blackboard. In today's episode, we will hear from Superintendent Dr. Jared Cotton, Chief of Staff and Clerk to the Board, Dr. Angie Smith, and Dr. Chris Vail, Director of Communications for Chesapeake Public Schools in Virginia. Dr. Cotton was selected as the recipient of the NSPRA 2022 Communication Technology Award for Superintendents. The award, presented by NSPRA in partnership with Blackboard, recognizes one district leader annually for leadership in redefining, upgrading and integrating cutting-edge communication technology to improve and expand outreach and engagement with internal and external education stakeholders. Today we want to learn more about these efforts, their effectiveness, and how they can be duplicated in other school systems. Today's episode is sponsored by Finalsite. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 32: Storytelling The Write Way

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2023 31:21


    In today's episode, we are diving into the topic of great storytelling through great writing! Joining us is Christina Beam, Marketing Specialist with New Hanover County Schools. Her article, "Still She Rose," is a 2022 Blue Ribbon Award and Best of the Best Recipient. Another one of her articles, “You Saved My Life: Forest Hills Teacher Rescues Student from Choking,” was a Best of the Best Writing winner for 2021. In today's episode, Christina provides some guidance and best practices for storytelling the 'write' way. This episode is brought to you by Peachjar. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA.

    School PR Drive Time Episode 31: You Are The Brand And The Brand Is You

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2023 21:54


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. In today's episode, we will explore the topic of branding. We are not talking school branding or organizational branding-- we're discussing your personal and professional brand management. Our guest today is Dr. Patricia McLean, a long time NCSPRA member and former NCSPRA president and State and National School PR Accolades. Dr. McLean is a 20-year educator, having served as a math and science teacher, a human resource officer, and a school PR Professional. She has presented at the state and national levels. We'll explore some relevant and essential professional development advice for school PR practitioners and beyond! This episode is brought to you by Parent Square. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2023, NCSPRA.

    School PR Drive Time Episode 30: Currency Of Courtesy

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2023 32:36


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. In today's episode, we will be discussing the currency of courtesy. What is it and why it matters. Joining me today is Brent Campbell, Chief Communications and External Relations Officer with Winston- Salem/Forsyth Co. Schools and Dionne Jenkins, the board attorney for Winston-Salem/Forsyth Co. Schools. Brent and Dionne designed a presentation for administrators and the leadership team discussing the currency of courtesy and for this podcast, we want to align these ideas with external relationship management- this can be working with the media, parents, teachers, and stakeholders. This episode is brought to you by Gabbart. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2022, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 29: New To School PR -A Reflection

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2022 25:00


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. Co-hosts Stacia Harris and Kevin Smith have a wonderful conversation with a school PR practitioner who is new to the industry. Kylie McDonald is the PIO for Richmond County Schools. Stacia and Kevin met Kylie at a PD event when she was just a month into the job. She'd already learned valuable lessons, and we wanted to lift up her experience to help both new and veteran #SchoolPRPros as we continue to navigate choppy waters in our industry. This episode is brought to you by Rhodes Branding. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2022, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 28: Leveraging Relationship Capital with Stephanie McFarland

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2022 34:55


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. Today's episode is all about the power of relationship capital. Joining us for the conversation is Stephanie McFarland of McFarland PR. Stephanie is a senior issues-management consultant and president of McFarland PR & Public Affairs, Inc., with nearly 30 years of deep public-relations expertise honed in pressure-intense private and public organizations. Stephanie has served in public-relations capacities and leadership roles with Indianapolis Power & Light Co., Eli Lilly, Sallie Mae, the Indiana Department of Revenue, and various state government agencies. Additionally, she recently launched her own podcast, It's a PR Thing. . . . This episode is brought to you by Classtag, the all-in-one community engagement platform. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2022, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 27- The Loss of Conversational Civility with Sarah Broberg, APR

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2022 40:33


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. In today's episode, we will explore the topic of conversational civility in crisis. As school communicators, we know the importance of conveying a message accurately and being able to address any feedback, questions, or concerns from our stakeholders. But, as we'll discuss today, this process has become broken in many ways and for many reasons. Joining me is Sarah Broberg, APR, President, SB Corporate Consultancy, and the Founding President of PRSA of Western North Carolina. You can reach Sarah via email: sbcorporateconsultancy@gmail.com Online: http://sbcorporateconsultancy.com/ Phone: 828-989-8739 Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2022, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 26: Crisis Communications Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2022 31:26


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. Today's episode will continue exploring crisis communications and response to an emergency event at a school. Since we know a crisis can strike in many ways, we want to tackle the topic from a couple of perspectives. In part one, which I will link below, we explored crisis communications and response from a law enforcement perspective. In this episode, we want to dive into a crisis such as a natural disaster or fire emergency. Joining me today are representatives from Buncombe County and Asheville City Fire. Kelley Klope is the PIO for the Asheville Fire Department. Angie Ledford is the Division Manager for Buncombe County Emergency Management. Kelley Klope joined the Asheville Fire Department in 1996 as an online firefighter. After serving online for almost six years she advanced to the role of the Fire and Life Safety Educator and Level II Inspector. Soon after taking on this position, it was recognized that AFD should appoint a Public Information Officer to assist with disseminating both internal and external information. Kelley has now served as the Public Information Officer for AFD for almost 20 years. Kelley not only serves as the department's PIO, but also provides administrative and organizational support to the Fire Chief and his staff. She serves as liaison with other employees and outside entities, coordinating and managing work activities and events. She often represents the Fire Chief at meetings with the general public, local media, organizations, and others. Kelley acts as spokesperson for the Fire Chief and/or department and also manages the fire department's website and social media platforms. Angie Ledford began her career with Buncombe County Emergency Services in 2000. She currently serves as the Emergency Management Division Manager. Angie holds Incident Management credentials as Plans Section Chief, Finance Section Chief, Liaison Officer and Public Information Officer. She has assisted many agencies, including Buncombe County and Asheville City Schools, with emergency response planning as well as drills and exercises. This episode is brought to you by Peachjar. Did you know that students spend an average of 13% of their waking hours in school by the time they're 18? This leaves parents facing the question of how to fill the remaining 87%. Together with parents and communities, schools share in the joint mission to enrich the lives of children in and outside the classroom, but you can't do it alone. That's where Peachjar comes in. With Peachjar, your school can provide more resources, increase engagement with busy parents, and streamline communications so that you can spend more time focusing on celebrating student success. Trusted by over 17,000+ schools in 850+ school districts, 34,000+ community organizations, and over 12 million parents nationwide, Peachjar delivers resources that help communities thrive. Book a demo at booking.ebsta.com/tabassumb today to learn how partnering with Peachjar can help you streamline your communications process and better connect with your community. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 25: Crisis Communications Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2022 50:56


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. Today, we dive into a two part episode about Crisis Communications. Today, we'll focus on an event that would involve law enforcement. And in part 2, we'll talk through navigating a natural disaster or another such event. Joining me today are two people that I keep on speed dial. Aaron Sarver is the PIO for the Buncombe County Sheriff's office. Lillian Govus is the Director of Communications and Public Engagement at Buncombe County Government. This episode is brought to you by Peachjar. Did you know that students spend an average of 13% of their waking hours in school by the time they're 18? This leaves parents facing the question of how to fill the remaining 87%. Together with parents and communities, schools share in the joint mission to enrich the lives of children in and outside the classroom, but you can't do it alone. That's where Peachjar comes in. With Peachjar, your school can provide more resources, increase engagement with busy parents, and streamline communications so that you can spend more time focusing on celebrating student success. Trusted by over 17,000+ schools in 850+ school districts, 34,000+ community organizations, and over 12 million parents nationwide, Peachjar delivers resources that help communities thrive. Book a demo at https://booking.ebsta.com/tabassumb today to learn how partnering with Peachjar can help you streamline your communications process and better connect with your community. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 24- Tips for Parent Engagement

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2022 25:50


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. Today, we dive into the topic of parent engagement and why it's so important. To help us with the conversation, we're speaking with Dr. Chad Stevens, Chief Strategy Officer for Parent Square and Tanae Sump-McLain, Chief Communication Officer with Mooresville Graded School District. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 23- Revisiting K12PR Well

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2022 47:45


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA! Your hosts today are Stacia Harris, Buncombe County Schools and Molly McGowan Gorsuch, APR, Henderson County Public Schools. Today, we're chatting with Kristin Magette, APR, alongside her colleague Shawn McKillop, APR. Shawn and Kristin have both been instrumental in fostering an environment where School PR professionals can discuss mental health, wellness, and work-life balance to learn from each other and work to prevent burnout. This episode is brought to you, in part, by our sponsor: ThoughtExchange Here is a link to our first conversation with Kristin regarding #K12PRWell. https://soundcloud.com/ncspra/school-pr-drive-time-episode-004-kristin-magette?in=ncspra/sets/school-pr-drive-time-the&si=1f5c1b2b72214f3abca6145f13a2fab8&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 22 -Building Stakeholder Trust With ThoughtExchange

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2022 31:27


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. Our guests today will help us unpack a big topic facing school communicators— building trust with stakeholders! Our guests today are: Kailey Metcalfe from ThoughtExchange Catherine Carbone -Rogers and Tove Tupper from Highline Public Schools in Washington state. In this engaging conversation, we explore the challenges and opportunities when considering engaging parents, staff, and stakeholders as well as successful strategies. Catherine and Tova will even share a significant event their school system faced and how effective engagement saved the day. This episode is brought to you, in part, by our sponsor: ThoughtExchange Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 21- Nora Carr, Jen Heatherly, & Charles Batchelor- New to School PR?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2022 44:19


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. Join Stacia Harris, a member of the NCSPRA media team, for a lively conversation about challenges and opportunities for those who are new to school PR. Our guests bring some unique experiences to their roles as school communicators. Jen Heatherly is the PIO for Translyvania Co. Schools, and she's new to her role this year as is Charles Batchelor with Moore County Schools. He's the Assistant Dir. of Communications. Finally, Nora Carr joins us as well. She's currently the Assistant Direrctor of Communications for the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation in Winston-Salem but was a long time school PR Pro with Guilford County Schools and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. This episode is designed to inform and inspire both veteran and "newbie" school PR practitioners! This episode is brought to you, in part, by our sponsor: ThoughtExchange Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 20-Tim Waller, Greenville County Schools

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2021 40:15


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA about driving the narrative forward for public education through the work of school PR professionals. In this episode, we had a great conversation about making the transition from TV news to School PR. Tim Waller spent several decades in television and made the transition to School PR about two years ago. We discussed what that transition has been like, how the experience helps him at his new job, and advice for improving media relations in your district. This episode is brought to you, in part, by our sponsor: ThoughtExchange Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 019- Nicole Young & John McCann- Podcast About Recording Podcasts

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2021 46:57


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA about driving the narrative forward for public education through the work of school PR professionals. In this episode, we recorded a podcast about recording podcasts! Nicole Young, who was the Coordinator of Communications and Media for Clay County Schools, Florida at the time of recording, was curious about beginning a podcast for her school system. We brought John McCann, Chatham Co. Schools, onto the show to share his experience with Chatham Co. Notebook, a podcast he produced for his school system. Stacia Harris and Kevin Smith host this episode. Below are links to the products we discussed. Enjoy the show! https://www.bluemic.com/en-us/products/yeti/ https://anchor.fm/ https://www.headliner.app/ https://www.audacityteam.org/ https://www.adobe.com/products/audition.html https://www.podcastinsights.com/podcast-equipment/ Example of portable, inexpensive sound proofing: https://www.amazon.com/Pyle-Portable-Vocal-Recording-Booth/dp/B075DPCQPP/ref=sr_1_7?crid=1VT18CETZFKWJ&dchild=1&keywords=portable+sound+booth&qid=1635958179&s=musical-instruments&sprefix=portable+sound%2Cmi%2C158&sr=1-7 This episode is brought to you, in part, by our sponsor: ThoughtExchange Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA *Note: this podcast was recorded before the beginning of the 21-22 school year. Since then, Nicole, John, and Kevin have all left their respective school systems.

    School PR Drive Time Episode 018 — Thublin, Jenks — PIOs & the Superintendent Search

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2021 50:04


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA about driving the narrative forward for public education through the work of school PR professionals. In this episode, learn from Ashley-Michelle Thublin and Andy Jenks—two rockstar veterans of the process that leads from the announcement of a superintendent search to the first 100 days in your new district leader's administration and more. Andy presented at an NSPRA conference about "Amy's Passport" and how a successful search and introduction process for new superintendent Dr. Amy Cashwell amplified the Henrico County Public Schools (Richmond, VA) strategic plan in every way. Learn more on the HCPS website: https://henricoschools.us/amyspassport-old/ Having led community conversations in multiple searches during her tenure with Asheville City Schools, Ashley-Michelle called out this video where students describe *their* ideal district leader in this powerful example of raising up student voice: https://www.facebook.com/101755297359/videos/2433435010083122 This episode is brought to you, in part, by our sponsor: Blackboard. www.blackboard.com Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 017- Forthright Advising- Building and Maintaining Trust

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2021 34:16


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA about driving the narrative forward for public education through the work of school PR professionals. In this episode, we’re chatting with Katie Test Davis, Founder of Forthright Advising, and Ashley Peterson DeLuca, Senior Advisor with Forthright Advising. Today’s episode is all about trust! In these tumultuous times for educators and school PR practitioners, many of us likely feel that COVID has shaken the trust that our families, staff, and community may have in our institutions. Today, we talk about rebuilding and maintaining trust! The link to resources, articles, studies, and materials referenced on the show will be here: www.forthrightadvising.com/schoolprdrivetime Twitter handle is @comms4kids LinkedIn is: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forthright-advising/ This episode is brought to you, in part, by ThoughtExchange. https://www.thoughtexchange.com/ Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA Release date: 19 May 2021

    School PR Drive Time Episode 016 - Cindy Warner, APR - Preparing for the APR

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2021 44:49


    This episode of School PR Drive Time is brought to you by BlackBoard. Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA about driving the narrative forward for public education through the work of school PR professionals. In this episode, we’re chatting with Cindy Warner, APR, who’s in her 19th year as the Public Relations and Community Education Supervisor for the Shelby County School District and recently completed her third term as President of the Alabama School Public Relations Association (ALSPRA). A regional rep on the NSPRA APR accreditation committee, she’s engaged in guiding practitioners through earning their APR, is an APR Facilitator in the online APR Study Course, and has served as an APR mentor to many. Warner has served as the Public Relations and Community Education Supervisor or the Shelby County School District since 2002. She coordinates all public relations and marketing efforts for the district including internal and external communications, media relations, crisis communications, and social media. She serves as the chair of the communications leadership committee, one of the 12 components of the district’s Strategic Plan, and as the spokesperson for the district. She also coordinates and supervises all Community Education activities, including 15 after school care programs and adult and youth enrichment. Warner graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with an emphasis in Public Relations from Mississippi State University. She earned Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) in November 2015. You can email her at cwarner@shelbyed.org to learn more about earning your APR!

    School PR Drive Time Episode 015 - NC Teacher of the Year Maureen Stover, Lindsay Whitley (PIO, CCS)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2021 44:19


    "I think I was put on the planet to be a fighter for kids, and for what kids need in classrooms. And to be in a position where I have the opportunity to say what's important for kids and why, that's really an honor." —Maureen Stover, "Science Mom," Cumberland International Early College High School in Cumberland County Schools, NC. Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time from NCSPRA, driving the narrative forward for public education in North Carolina Public Schools through the work of #SchoolPR professionals! In this program, we chat with Maureen Stover is the 2020 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year, recently named one of four finalists to become the 2021 National Teacher of the Year by the Council of Chief State School Officers. See Stover's application and meet the cohort: https://ntoy.ccsso.org/meet-the-2021-finalists-2/ We are grateful to have Maureen Stover join #SchoolPR Drive Time with Lindsay Whitley, Associate Superintendent of Communications and Community Engagement, who is a former NCSPRA board member. Stover spoke with us about using teacher voice to shift conversations and policy to make equitable education a reality for every child regardless of their zip code, and to meet the increased need for social-emotional learning supports for every student. We discussed how time teaching in Cumberland County Schools and previously in military service confirmed Stover's passion for education — her "ikigai" — and prepared her for a systematic and team-oriented approach to being NC's Teacher of the Year and a finalist for the National Teacher of the Year. "It's important to recognize that we may specialize in content areas, but we are much more to our students than imparters of knowledge. Sometimes I'm a nurse, sometimes I'm a cheerleader, and the 'science mom.' I am whatever my kids need me to be that day, and that's a big part of their social-emotional learning." Stover's application for National Teacher of the Year is available online "Faces and Voices of Equity" is a project of the 2020 cohort of North Carolina's regional Teachers of the Year to amplify teacher voice and raise awareness of a different equity issue each month. Their online home is the Twitter feed "Educators for Equity" (www.twitter.com/Ed_For_Equity). Maureen Stover is online at www.twitter.com/StoverScience. Lindsay Whitley is online at www.twitter.com/lindsaywhitley. They have worked together at Cumberland County Schools, the 5th largest district in North Carolina, serving over 50,000 students. Learn more on the web at http://ccs.k12.nc.us and www.twitter.com/CumberlandCoSch. Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 014- Sarah O'Donnell, Stevens Point Area PSD, WI

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2021 36:30


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time from NCSPRA, driving the narrative forward for public education in North Carolina Public Schools through the work of #SchoolPR professionals! This week, we’re chatting with Sarah O’Donnell. She’s the Director of Communications for the Stevens Point Area Public School District in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. She shares with us a very helpful tool that she successfully used on an enrollment campaign for one of her schools. She designed an easy to understand campaign roadmap. This contains clear goals, timelines, channels for communication, and more. That collateral is linked here>>>https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/19wRo6lm0xN9Sj8dk57xQ1oUyxJBZWM4o?usp=sharing Also part of the conversation is Dr. Greg Shull. He’s the Director of Communications for Cleveland County Schools. As part of his doctoral program (through Gardner-Webb University), he became more familiar with the balanced scorecard approach to setting goals and measuring success. For our conversation, he focuses on the communications scorecard and how this tool can be used by school-level staff to motivate and create some excitement and accountability for communications initiatives. A sample of a scorecard is linked here>> https://rebrand.ly/commscorecard This will be an informative and engaging conversation that will, hopefully, provide pr practitioners a new outlook and new resources to achieve success with various pr/marketing/communications campaigns. Here’s more information about our guest, Sarah O’Donnell: Sarah O'Donnell is the Director of Communications for the Stevens Point Area Public School District. She is passionate about building measurable communication strategies informed by data that move messages and movements forward. O'Donnell has worked in the field of communication as a political strategist, media and public relations manager, business and marketing consultant, and specializes in school communication strategies and tactics. O'Donnell is a 2007 graduate of the University of Wisconsin and 2022 Northwestern University IMC candidate. She can be found on LinkedIn, Instagram, and once in a blue moon on Twitter @SarahLillianO and via her work email sodonnel@pointschools.net Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA Release date: 10 February 2021

    School PR Drive Time Episode 013 — Dr. John Marshall, Renee Murphy — Racial Equity JCPS, KY

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2021 47:18


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time from NCSPRA, driving the narrative forward for public education in North Carolina Public Schools through the work of #SchoolPR professionals! This week, we learn from the team of Dr. John Marshall (Chief Equity Officer) and Renee Murphy (Chief Communications Officer) driving equity policy and communications forward for Jefferson County Public Schools in Louisville, KY, with host Kevin Smith from the NCSPRA board of directors. Individually and as a team, Marshall and Murphy leverage the highest level of experience and professionalism in the pursuit of academic excellence and racial equity, a complex set of challenges that is no longer optional for any school or school system to address head on—from the boardroom to the classroom. From the REAP model (Racial Equity Analysis Protocol) to holistic storytelling practices, the Equity and Communications offices at JCPS demonstrate a total commitment to racial equity and a constructive school culture in everything from student-teacher interactions to full-scale social upheaval. Everyone in School PR and school leadership stands to gain from following this conversation and what is happening in JCPS today: On the web: Home page: www.jefferson.kyschools.us Social media: search "JCPSKY" Grace James Academy of Excellence: https://sites.google.com/jefferson.kyschools.us/grace-james-academy-of-excelle/home W.E.B. DuBois Academy: https://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/middle/DuBoisAcademy/ REAP (Racial Equity Analysis Protocol): https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/department/diversity-equity-poverty-division/school-based-decision-making/council-member-resources We hope you enjoy the show! About Dr. John Marshall: Dr. John D. Marshall is a Louisville native. He is currently the Chief Equity Officer of Diversity, Equity, and Poverty for Jefferson County Public Schools. In this role he oversees Site Base Decision Making (SBDM), Equity and Inclusion, JCPS Satellite Offices, Black Male Achievement, Student Engagement and Community Outreach, Out of School Time Community Data, Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE), Foster Care, the Louisville Teacher Residency Program, and the Volunteer Talent Center. He completed his undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate degrees from Western Kentucky University. His area of study and interest focus on teacher engagement and the impact it has on African American Males. John was a high school English teacher and administrator in Jefferson County Public Schools. John sits on the Scholarship Committee for the Louisville Branch of the NAACP. He is the father of three girls who attend the Jefferson County Public Schools District. His wife is an administrator in the district. Dr. Marshall is community centered and future focused. An elephant sits in the center of his conference table. Why? Because Dr. Marshall believes that improving the educational system first starts with addressing the elephant in the room. About Renee Murphy: Murphy has served Jefferson County Public Schools for two years as Chief Communications Officer, following nearly 20 years of experience as a television anchor and reporter, much of that time spent covering JCPS. She began as an evening anchor and nightside reporter, covering "everything from the state fair to homicides to sports." She later served as the main anchor for Good Morning Kentuckiana. A North Carolina native and Virginia Commonwealth University graduate, Murphy lives in Louisville with her husband and their three children. She serves as a community volunteer and has supported nonprofit organizations such as Kentucky Youth Advocates, Families for Effective Autism Treatment, the Urban League, Centerstone and Uspiritus. _____ Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 012- Traci Hewes and Anne Treanor- School Communications Crossover

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2021 31:37


    Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time. This week, we explore how the worlds of communications and PR intersect with school nursing and school nutrition. We’ll chat with Traci Hewes, school nurse for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and Anne Treanor, School Nutrition Director for Kannapolis City Schools. Enjoy the show! Traci Hewes Bio: I have been a registered nurse for 20 years and a school nurse for 5 years now. I am currently working for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools. I am the legislative chair on the Executive Board for the School Nurse Association of NC. I finished my Masters of Public Health in December and wish to continue to improve the health and lives of students across our state through health education, prevention, and advocacy. Anne Treanor Bio: This year marks my 20th year with KCS as the School Nutrition Administrator. Prior to that, I was a Consultant Dietitian for 2 hospitals and multiple nursing homes. I have a Master’s degree in Nutrition and two Bachelor of Science degrees. One in Business Administration and the other in Human Nutrition & Foods. I am a board-certified Licensed and Registered Dietitian. I am a member of the School Nutrition Association, American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and NCSPRA. I am honored to be a member of NCSPRA as I have learned so much about the critical role communication plays as it relates to growing the School Nutrition program. All School Nutrition Administrators should take an active role in working with their district’s PR representative to bring positive awareness to the importance of school meals and student success. Music: "Hip Jazz," bensound.com, all other content © 2020, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 011 - James Ford and Equity in NC Public Schools

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2021 49:20


    Welcome to our conversation with James Ford, executive director of CREED (https://www.creed-nc.org) and a member of the NC State Board of Education (https://stateboard.ncpublicschools.gov), a leading voice in the discussion around equity for all students in NC Public Schools. Co-host Randi Davis, who worked with Ford in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, joins host Kevin Smith and special guest James Ford to learn more about the background and future of equity work at the state and local level throughout North Carolina's public schools. Ford weaves personal storytelling into a review of timely and critical research showing the importance of all stakeholders—not only in NC Public Schools but in all related fields—coming together to close opportunity gaps and ensure a sound, basic education for every child in the state. Kevin Smith is Community Relations Coordinator for Transylvania County Schools and NCSPRA State Coordinator. Randi Davis is Internal Communications Specialist for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and Vice-President of NCSPRA. About James Ford: James E. Ford is an award-winning educator and consultant on issues of equity in education. He is Principal Consultant at Filling the Gap Educational Consultants, LLC. and the Executive Director of the Center for Racial Equity in Education (CREED). He was appointed by Gov. Cooper in 2018 to serve as a member of the North Carolina State Board of Education, representing the Southwest Region. In 2014-15 Ford was the North Carolina Teacher of the Year and the representative for 95,000 public school teachers throughout the state. For a full year, he traveled the state and country speaking before thousands of teachers, students, business leaders and policymakers about the importance of education. Ford taught World History at Garinger High School in Charlotte, NC starting in 2010. Ford earned a bachelor of science in mass communication from Illinois State University in 2003 and a master’s degree in teaching from Rockford University in 2009. He received his Add-On Certificate from Wingate University in 2014 and holds an NC Principals License. He is currently pursuing his PhD at UNC-Charlotte in Urban Education. He is a civic leader in Charlotte, having served as the co-chair for the Leading on Opportunity Council, an effort change the systemic barriers to economic mobility in the city. Before deciding to become a teacher, Ford’s early career cemented his connection to children and youth. He worked as a truancy intervention specialist in high schools and director of a teen center that provided educational and after-school activities for youth at risk of dropping out of school. He considers his work and extension of his greater life-calling. He is an activist, writer, minister, husband and father. Learn more James Ford → https://www.jameseford.net/about-james Freedom Hill Coalition → https://www.creed-nc.org/freedom-hill-coalition On The Margins podcast → https://www.creed-nc.org/podcast Music: “Hip Jazz,” Bensound.com All other content ©2021, NCSPRA.

    School PR DriveTime- Episode 010 Part 2 Rich Bagin, NSPRA Exec. Dir.

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2020 29:06


    Welcome to part two of our conversation about NSPRA and what's ahead for school PR practitioners on the national scale. We chat with outgoing Executive DIrector Rich Bagan. Rich Bagin, APR, is Executive Director Emeritus, of the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). He served as NSPRA Executive director for 28 years and also served NSPRA as association director for three years prior to being appointed as its executive. Rich was a senior vice president for two marketing communication firms in the Washington, D.C. area and also as communication director for the Council of Chief State School Officers, based in D.C. Prior to arriving in Washing ton, Rich was the communication professional for a suburban school district in the Philadelphia area for eight years. He began his career as a secondary school English teacher in Bucks County, Pennsylvania and he also served as president of the Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association (PenSPRA). Rich has authored five books and numerous articles about all facets of school public relations. And he also began NSPRA’s communication audit service during his earlier days at NSPRA. Rich can be reached at rich@bagin.org or at 301-519-0496 through February 2021. Music: “Hip Jazz,” Bensound.com All other content ©2020, NCSPRA.

    School PR Drive Time Episode 010 Part 1- Lesley Bruinton, NCSPRA President-Elect

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2020 23:19


    Join co-hosts Stacia Harris (Buncombe County Schools) and Ken Derksen (Wayne Co. Public Schools) for an exciting two-part focus on school PR trends across the country. For this insight, we turn to two NSPRA legends. Lesley Bruinton and Rich Bagin! In part 1 of 2, we chat with Lesley Bruinton. Lesley Bruinton inspires others through her leadership in school communications. She is an Accredited in Public Relations practitioner with more than 18 years of professional experience. The former television journalist now serves as the public relations coordinator for the Tuscaloosa City (Ala.) Schools—an urban district with more than 10,000 students. Lesley is the president-elect of the National School Public Relations Association and a two-time past president of the Alabama School Public Relations Association. She is a 2020 AASA Women in School Leadership Award winner and a three-time NSPRA Gold Medallion winner— most recently in 2020, for her work on the Tuscaloosa City Schools ELEVATE Dual Enrollment Scholarship program, part of the city's efforts to close the achievement gap between students of differing ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Find Lesley on LinkedIn or Twitter @lesleybruinton or her blog https://modernretropr.wordpress.com/ Music: “Hip Jazz,” Bensound.com All other content ©2020, NCSPRA.

    School PR Drive Time Episode 009 - Dr. Scott Elliott, Susan Allred - Continuous Improvement

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2020 41:43


    Welcome to Episode 9 of School PR Drive Time! In this show from November 16, 2020, co-hosts Kevin Smith (Transylvania County Schools) and Ellen Boyd (Executive Director, NCSPRA) enjoy a conversation uniting friends and colleagues around a topic that brought them together 20 years ago. Superintendent Scott Elliott of Watauga County Schools and Susan Allred, author and consultant with 45 years of educational experience in NC, SC, and KY, crossed paths as Scott was first becoming an administrator in the 1990s. What they have each learned over the intervening years about the art and science of Continuous Improvement is the subject of this episode. From learning about systems thinking (PDSA, similar to the RPIE model for PR best practices) they also explore how strong relationships with students build capacity and raise the bar for excellence. They describe the process of overcoming fear, and acquiring the boldness required by leaders to take risks for the sake of growth. All important topics for every stakeholder in our public schools! Music: “Hip Jazz,” Bensound.com All other content ©2020, NCSPRA.

    School PR Drive Time Episode 008- Andrea Gribble, Social School 4 EDU

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2020 47:46


    In this episode of School PR Drive Time, co-hosts Stacia Harris (Buncombe County Schools) and Molly McGowan Gorsuch (Henderson Co. Public Schools) enjoy a conversation with Andrea Gribble, founder and CEO of Social School 4 EDU. Andrea’s passion is helping schools recognize their daily awesomeness and sharing that story with the world. She’s built a team that celebrates hundreds of schools across the country! #SocialSchool4EDU provides full social media management, personally coaches social media teams and individuals, and offers a vibrant online community that provides ongoing professional development for school social media champions. Helpful Blog – Controlling Comments on Facebook Website – www.socialschool4edu.com Free Video Series – socialschool4edu.com/secrets Follow me on Twitter - @AndreaGribble Music: “Hip Jazz,” Bensound.com Release date: 09 November 2020

    School PR Drive Time Episode 007 -Holly Holland, Calcasieu Parish Schools

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2020 37:51


    Join co-hosts Stacia Harris (Buncombe Co. Schools) and Molly McGowan Gorsuch (Henderson Co. Public Schools) for a conversation with Holly Holland. Holly is the PIO for Calcasieu Parish Schools in Lake Charles, LA which was hit with a pandemic, then two major back-to-back hurricanes. It’s a stark reminder that natural disasters don’t share a calendar with other global crises – and can affect school communications at any time. Music: “Hip Jazz,” Bensound.com Release date: 31 October 2020

    School PR Drive Time Episode 006 - Parents for Public Schools of Pitt County & Pitt County Schools

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2020 37:21


    When parents stand up for public schools—and work to hold their schools accountable as well—what does that look like? Hear from two experts in Pitt County, North Carolina, who know firsthand. Program host Kevin Smith (PIO, Transylvania County Schools) spoke with guest host Jennifer Johnson (PIO, Pitt County Schools) and special guest Kylene Dibble (Exec Dir, PPSPC) to discuss how far a partnership between parents and public schools can extend. When the pandemic placed a critical focus on building bridges through communication in spring 2020, years of building positive relationships paid back huge dividends that continue to grow and grow as students return to schools in Pitt County. Parent voice, when it carries over authentically to the leadership of public schools, helps to make sure the school system's goals are carried forward by the whole community. The subject of our program is the collaboration of Parents for Public Schools of Pitt County and Pitt County Schools, made tangible through Parent Engagement Programs, school tours, and community conversations. Their mission also cuts close to the heart of a #SchoolPR professional's work: "Parents for Public Schools of Pitt County advances the role of families and communities in securing a high quality public education for each child." Learn more and see PPSPC programs in action on Facebook and their website, or contact Executive Director Kylene Dibble directly. PPSPC on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ppspittcounty PPSPC website: www.ppspittcounty.org Email: kdibble@ppspittcounty.org The national organization is on the web at parents4publicschools.org. Music: "Hip Jazz," bensound.com, all other content © 2020, NCSPRA

    School PR Drive Time Episode 005- Dr. Mike Clumpner, Threat Suppression, Inc.

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2020 39:47


    Co-hosts Ken Derksen (Wayne Co. Schools) and Stacia Harris (Buncombe Co. Schools) on the NCSPRA board chat with Dr. Clumpner about school safety and security during the disruptions of a pandemic, as well as how protests and civil unrest affect our school day. Dr. Mike Clumpner is the President and Chief Executive Officer at Threat Suppression, Incorporated. He is a 28-year veteran of public safety, with 25 years’ experience as a career firefighter/paramedic, and 10 years’ experience as a law enforcement officer. Mike has undergraduate degrees in fire science, paramedicine, and business administration. He has a master’s degree in business administration from Elon University and a PhD in homeland security policy from Northcentral University. Mike has researched active shooter and terrorist events since 2005, accumulating more than 25,000 hours of personal research, and serves as a counter-terrorism advisor for the Department of Defense, Department of Justice, and Department of Homeland Security. E-Mail: info@threatsuppression.com https://www.twitter.com/threatsuppress https://www.facebook.com/ThreatSuppression Additional takeaways from our conversation: Mental health is very important right now for both students and staff. Make sure adequate resources are available to both. The administration should initiate the conversation and not wait for people to come to ask for help. The school safety and security landscape is forever changing. School districts need to make sure they are involving their local law enforcement, fire departments, and EMS agencies into the school safety discussion. At a minimum, districts should meet with public safety leadership quarterly to discuss any pertinent issues. Do not reinvent the wheel. Use other school district leaders to help guide your district with creating crisis policies and procedures. In many cases, you will prevent making costly mistakes by implementing misguided policies. Be wary of companies trying to sell you school safety and security products. Many “security” products do not work and often violate fire code or the American with Disabilities Act. Before making large purchases, make sure that your local public safety leadership has the opportunity to provide feedback. Music: “Hip Jazz,” Bensound.com

    School PR Drive Time Episode 004 -Kristin Magette of kristinmagette.com, #k12prwell

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2020 51:18


    Welcome to episode 4 of School PR DriveTime, a podcast produced by NCSPRA about driving the narrative forward for public education through the work of school PR professionals. Today we are chatting with Kristin Magette. She’s an award-winning public relations professional and advocate for service, strategic communications, and collaboration. We covered topics surrounding the #k12prwell movement focused on wellness and self-care. Below are some great extra resources that Kristin recommended. We do want to include this disclaimer that if you or a colleague seems to be truly struggling during this uncertain time, please seek professional help. ■ When Passion Leads to Burnout | Harvard Business Review https://hbr.org/2019/07/when-passion-leads-to-burnout ■ How to Fix a Major Cause of Employee Burnout | Great Place to Work https://www.greatplacetowork.com/resources/blog/how-to-fix-a-major-cause-of-employee-burnout ■ Real Talk about Self Care | Thought Catalog https://thoughtcatalog.com/brianna-wiest/2017/11/this-is-what-self-care-really-means-because-its-not-all-salt-baths-and- Learn more: http://kristinmagette.com/ Music: “Hip Jazz,” Bensound.com

    School PR Drive Time Episode 003 - Dr. Bev Emory, Jessica Swencki - Regional Support, NCDPI

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2020 39:26


    Welcome to the School PR Drive Time podcast brought to you by NCSPRA, the North Carolina School Public Relations Association. This podcast brings relevant and unique insight into the world of school public relations. In Episode 3, Kevin Smith discusses the role of strategic communications during the pandemic and the road ahead Dr. Bev Emory and Jessica Swencki, with guest commentator Ken Derksen Dr. Emory and Jessica are leaders within the NC Department of Public Instruction who built on extensive experience in the classroom and Public Information Officer roles, and speak powerfully and personally about the contribution of #SchoolPR professionals to strategic outcomes in public education. Dr. Beverly Emory is Deputy Superintendent for School Support after serving in educational leadership from the classroom to the PIO's office in Ohio and North Carolina. She most recently served a local district as Superintendent in Winston Salem/Forsyth County Schools. https://sites.google.com/dpi.nc.gov/rcm/home Jessica Swencki is the District and Regional Case Manager for the Sandhills Region in the NC Department of Public Instruction, after serving as an educational leader in Brunswick County Schools, Pender County Schools, and UNC-Wilmington. Jessica serves on the NCSPRA Board of Directors. https://sites.google.com/dpi.nc.gov/rcm/regions/sandhills-region Don't forget to follow NCSPRA on social media: @NCSPRA Music: "Hip Jazz," Bensound.com

    School PR Drive Time Episode 002 - Jennifer Moxley, Sunshine Media Network

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2020 35:06


    Welcome to the School PR Drive Time podcast brought to you by the North Carolina School Public Relations Association. This podcast brings relevant and unique insight into the world of school public relations. Join co-hosts Stacia Harris and Ellen Boyd as we explore the power of storytelling with our guest Jennifer Moxley. Jennifer is the owner and founder of Sunshine Media Network based in Charlotte. Jennifer Moxley's media training, crisis management and storymaking have helped at companies such as Ferrari, Duke Energy, and Marriott, but she spends most of her time working with women and minority entrepreneurs and experts so their stories are told and heard on national platforms. For education clients she has done video projects, media training and, during Covid, she's helped educators set up their home classrooms because better video means increased student engagement. www.sunshinemedianetwork.com or on IG @sunshinemedianetwork Don't forget to follow NCSPRA on social media: @NCSPRA Music: "Hip Jazz," Bensound.com

    School PR Drive Time Episode 001 - Callen Moore, Walton Co. Schools

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2020 38:27


    Welcome to the School PR Drive Time podcast brought to you by NCSPRA, the North Carolina School Public Relations Association. This podcast brings relevant and unique insight into the world of school public relations. In this week's episode, your hosts Stacia Harris and Kevin Smith chat with Callen Moore. She's the Public Relations Officer for Walton County Schools in Georgia. Her school system began in-person and remote learning on August 4, 2020. In this episode, she shares some advice and lessons learned about returning to school during a pandemic. Music: "Hip Jazz," Bensound.com

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