Posted: November 23, 2010

Job Description
The Communications and Public Relations Director will focus on LAPCS’ mission-critical strategy of promoting the quality Louisiana charter school movement. S/he will develop and execute strategies to better inform constituents about charter autonomy and performance statewide. This will include supporting the Executive Director in the launch of a statewide public relations campaign. The Communications and PR Director will play an integral role generating positive and proactive media coverage of LAPCS and its members. Additionally, s/he will manage communications with members, ensuring that they are adequately informed of pertinent information and LAPCS membership benefits.

About the LAPCS
Headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, the LAPCS is a non-profit organization representing charter schools throughout the state. The mission of the LAPCS is to support, promote, and advocate for the Louisiana charter school movement, increasing student access to high quality public schools statewide. More information about the LAPCS can be found at www.LaCharterSchools.org

Responsibilities
• Support the implementation of a strategic public relations and communications plan aimed at increasing visibility of charter schools across a broad range of constituents.
• Develop and manage communications with member schools related to value of LAPCS membership (services, support, advocacy), including newsletters, email blasts, and publications.
• Develop and implement high quality, effective and consistent marketing materials and manage external communications.
• Facilitate press and media outreach. Manage the organization’s relationships with reporters, publications, and all media requests.
• Maintain a high quality, informative, and interactive website.
• Implement stewardship activities to increase the visibility of LAPCS and Louisiana charters, including internal/external meetings, school tours, and special events.
• Plan and execute annual charter school professional development conference.

Qualifications and Experience
• Bachelor's degree with at least 3 years professional experience in marketing and/or communications.
• Ability to self-direct and prioritize among competing goals and to initiate process improvements.
• Demonstrated ability to work well with others and build relationships across organizations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with keen attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Flexibility and willingness to contribute when necessary on projects outside of own department.
• Steadfast commitment to LAPCS’ beliefs at all times

Belief Statements:
1. We believe charter schools should provide high quality educational options to students across the state. We will promote academic, operational, and financial quality standards and offer programs and services that help schools achieve them.

2. We believe charters operate best in an autonomous environment without distraction from what is best for students. We will mitigate threats to this environment so that schools can be effective and focused on the front lines.

3. We believe the strength of the association depends on vibrant and symbiotic relationships with schools.

4. We believe the sustainability of the organization and the quality of our services requires us to act proactively rather than reactively.

5. We believe the strength of individual schools impacts the strength of the broader movement – whose purpose is to demonstrate, by example, what is possible in our nation’s public schools.

Compensation and Benefits

The LAPCS offers a competitive salary that is commensurate with experience and a strong benefits package.

Interested candidates should email a cover letter and a resume to Donyell McGlathery at jobs@lacharterschools.org with “Communications Director: Your Name” in subject line.