Communicating the impact local school districts are having on student and system outcomes is emerging as a critical function of a school district. This often falls to communication staff to decide what and how to communicate district performance. As a result, communication leaders within school systems are in an influential position to brand the school district and to ensure all stakeholders better understand the priorities and impact of their local school district.
At a recent Tips and Tactics seminar provided by the Illinois Chapter of the National School Public Relations Associations (INSPRA), Dr. John Gatta, CEO from ECRA Group was invited to present on the topic of communicating data. He spoke about evaluating data and presenting this information with clarity to showcase the district’s true impact.
Dr. Gatta discussed how effective communication of data starts by communicating what matters to your communities. He outlined a process for defining strategic indicators, establishing benchmarks, and communicating inference. Examples for how to put this process into action at a school district provided audience members with fresh ideas for evaluating how they share information to their school communities.
Along with a suite of tools that help districts collect and analyze student data, ECRA’s services also include an online Strategic Dashboard that will help your district create a strong narrative. The Strategic Dashboard Is a powerful tool for superintendents and boards of education to tell their school district’s story and track strategic indicators and priorities.
