JOB OVERVIEW: The Montana School for the Deaf and the Blind seeks an Public Relations Specialist to serve as the main line of communication and contact for school staff, students and parents, members of the public, and vendors. Position has the responsibility in making sure that the school has up-to-date information on both internal and external communication platforms. The hours for this position are 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM. Essential Duties or Responsibilities: Communication Preparation Activities (40%) ● Develop a comprehensive communication plan for the schools overall public information and outreach efforts. This can include influencing others to join the mission and vision of the school. ● Interpret and apply laws, rules, regulations, and policies for public-relations operations, including student and staff privacy at the forefront. Understands FERPA and what it means to the school. ● Prepare factual, compelling presentations to support the interest, goals, and strategic plans of the school. ● Prepare information to be given at legislative committee meetings, Board of Public Education meetings, and other public groups interested in MSDB. Communication Routines (40%) ● Develop, edit, and promote informational materials about school activities and programs on a wide variety of mediums. ● Release informational materials through various communication methods, such as press releases, websites, and social media. ● Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with people outside the school that can assist with promoting the good work at MSDB. ● On occasion, represent the school to internal and external community groups, such as other state agencies, media, public, or groups that have an interest in the school mission and vision. ● Work with the superintendent to respond to requests for information. ● Update school websites with exciting news, image enhancements, promotional and informational materials. ● Work to ensure effective and consistent messaging in all areas of communication. Education Office Manager (15%) ● Serves as one of the first points of contact for the school when working with the public. This includes greeting visitors as they enter the building, assisting visitors/volunteers with sign in; greeting stakeholders that call MSDB during the school day on the phone professionally. ● Makes parent and caregiver communication a priority over all other duties. Secretary is accountable for knowing individual student circumstances such as attendance, bussing, and changes in schedule. ● Drives students to Great Falls High School and to other school related locations within Great Falls, when necessary. ● Ensures that the main education office is professional and inviting to everyone that comes into the school. This can include; making sure the office is clean and clear of piles, the main entrance and office look inviting, and makes sure that the office reflects the beliefs of the school. This includes using ASL anytime a deaf/hard of hearing person enters the office area. ● Knows and understands school policy and procedures adopted by The Board of Public Education. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: ● In-depth knowledge of the web based computer applications ● Working knowledge of social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X, and others. ● Proficient with office equipment including multi-line telephone systems ● Experience with using technology programs to create reports, documents ● Ability to research, learn, understand, and correctly apply policies and procedures; evaluate information and determine appropriate action ● Understanding of records management and laws pertaining to student records ● Able to schedule and manage calendars ● Organized, detail oriented, self-motivated, and time management skills ● Ability to recognize and maintain confidentiality including proper release of information ● Ability to establish and maintain professional working relationships ● Effective interpersonal skills, teamwork, and customer service skills. ● Has the ability and desire to learn American Sign Language! Minimum qualifications (Education and Experience): ● High School Diploma or GED ● Experience Work on Projects from beginning to end ● Experience With Social Media and other Communication Methods All applicants will be considered but the following is preferred: ● Bachelors' Degree with a major in public relations, communications, marketing, or journalism. ● Two years of directly related experience. ● Other combinations can be considered. ● Preferred experience providing support to executive staff.