Norfolk Public Schools seeks a Public Relations Coordinator.

Description: Bachelor's required, master's preferred with course work in journalism, education, mass communication, public relations, or related subjects. Considerable experience as a writer or public relations specialist, or any equivalent combination of education and experience that would provide the above noted knowledge, skill, and ability. Considerable skill in writing speeches, articles, advertising copy and other publications. Thorough knowledge of the general organization and functions of a public school system. Comprehensive knowledge of the principles, practices and procedures of media and public relations. Ability to make cogent oral reports and presentations at hearings, meetings and public events. Considerable experience with page design and graphics software such as Quark-XPress, Photoshop, Acrobat and others. Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines. Considerable skill in organizing special events and school community activities. Ability to maintain effective and productive working relationships with school administrators, staff, community members, media, and high-ranking public officials. Researches and writes letters, speeches, press statements, press releases, and news articles for the Superintendent of Schools and the Office of Communications. Focuses particularly on generating "good news" coverage for district. Responds to numerous information inquiries and assists in the presentation of information about Norfolk Public Schools to realtors, civic groups, and members of the news media. Develops and implements communications plans as necessary. Advises and assists administrators with news media and public relations matters including crisis communication support as necessary. Coordinates advertising efforts for the school system. Develops Norfolk Public Schools' publications and other materials as requested, such as newspaper advertisements, public service announcements, and press releases. Coordinates content and timely updates of news-related information on the Norfolk Public Schools Internet site. Represents Norfolk Public Schools at a variety of conferences, committee meetings, and community activities. Organizes special events and system-wide activities taking leadership roles with respect to contacting participants, setting of schedules, and handling the administrative details of the event. Plans and coordinates participation in workshops, conferences and city events. Develops and conducts communications/public relations training and workshops. Acts in the absence of the Communications Manager, fulfilling many of the duties of that position. Performs other duties as assigned by the Communications Manager and the Superintendent of Schools.