Director of Communications

Office Location: District Office

Phone: Ext. 1011

The Communication Director is the district’s primary leader for crisis communication, digital communication systems, and public information. This role ensures that during emergencies the district communicates clearly, quickly, and compassionately.

Serving as both the district’s webmaster and ParentSquare administrator, the Director is responsible for the accuracy, accessibility, and effectiveness of all major digital communication platforms. In addition, the Director of Communications acts as the steward of district-wide messaging—ensuring communication is clear, consistent, timely, and aligned with district values and goals. This role leads strategy, oversees all internal and external communication channels.

Responsibilities Overview:

Communication Strategy: Developing and implementing a comprehensive, annual communication plan aligned with district goals.

Brand and Message Stewardship: Defining and maintaining the district's official voice, brand, and visual identity across all platforms.

Media Relations: Serving as the official spokesperson, handling media inquiries, coordinating interviews, and issuing press releases.

Crisis Management: Leading the communication response during emergencies, ensuring timely, accurate, and empathetic public and internal messaging.

Digital Platform Oversight: Managing the content and strategy for the official district website and centralized social media accounts.

Community Engagement: Coordinating messaging and engagement surrounding district-wide initiatives

Policy Communication: Translating complex board decisions and policies into understandable public and internal messaging.

Team with community partners to create opportunities for students

Engage families, community partners and stakeholders to support student success

What can I help with?

Crisis communication templates, training, and messaging
Districtwide alerts and emergency updates
Website updates, troubleshooting, and content management
ParentSquare/notification system setup, guidance, and training
Media relations during emergencies
Consistent messaging for high-visibility announcements
Coordination of all districtwide outreach on digital platforms

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🐴 Outside of Work

When I’m not managing communications, I’m managing a beautifully chaotic circus at home. I was born and raised right here in town and am a proud graduate of The Dalles High School, so serving this community means the world to me, even if my current daily schedule feels like an extreme sport. Most of my "free" time is spent operating a highly uncompensated, 24/7 taxi service for my two young daughters, running them from one activity to the next.

When we finally park the car, we retreat to our mini-farm, where I swap crisis communication for livestock management. Our property is run by a lively committee of horses, sheep, chickens, and the true ruler of the household: our beloved, orange cat, Evan.

Needless to say there’s never a dull moment!