Communications Media Coordinator

This is a 260-Day Administrative (Act 93) position which is anticipated to begin on or after September 21, 2026.

Job Overview:
The Communications Media Coordinator serves as a key liaison between the Palmyra Area School District (PASD) and its internal and external communities. This position is responsible for developing and maintaining positive relationships with district stakeholders, overseeing strategic communication efforts, and serving as the Public Information Officer (PIO) during emergencies. The coordinator advises the Superintendent and administrators on communication issues, manages media relations, and enhances the district's public image. The role involves overseeing district communications, planning events, and ensuring proactive engagement with the community and media.

The salary range for this position will be $66,000 - $86,000 based upon experience.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive, district-wide communications program that promotes a positive image of the district, including programs, students, and staff, through both internal and external communication channels.
• Monitor and manage the district's online presence, including the website and social media accounts, to ensure consistent and effective communication with the community and ensuring alignment with district communication goals and established policies and procedures.
• Oversee the development and use of district electronic communication tools, such as the staff portal, social media, and messaging systems, ensuring effective communication across all channels.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of district activities to ensure accurate reporting and communication with stakeholders.
• Collaborate with district administration to ensure that all communication efforts enhance the district's image with staff, students, stakeholders, and the general public; advise and support the team on communications, media relations, and marketing strategies.
• Coordinate the creation and distribution of district publications (e.g., newsletters, flyers, handouts) and assess ongoing needs for new materials or resources.
• Develop and maintain community contacts and represent the district at community functions and build partnerships with local organizations such as the Palmyra Area Education Foundation, PTOs, Chamber of Commerce, and Rotary.
• Provide assistance with the coordination of special district programs (e.g., CUB, miniTHON, Title I Nights, etc.) and seek opportunities to support district mission goals.
• Assist with the district's Emergency Operations Plans, serving as the primary contact for media and coordinating crisis communication during emergencies.
• Serve as the spokesperson for media relations, responding to public inquiries and managing local, regional, and national media interactions.
• Attend all regular meetings of the Board of School Directors and assist with media inquiries as needed.
• Participate in professional public relations organizations and stay current on best practices in public relations and communications.
• Advise the Superintendent on community attitudes, trends, and potential public relations consequences related to changes in programs or policies.
• Manage media relations, preparing and distributing school news, and serving as the official spokesperson for the district when designated.
• Attend school events and perform additional duties, including evening and summer activities, as requested by district administration.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Superintendent.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent professional experience in communications or public relations.
• Working knowledge of public relations and communication strategies, with previous experience in a public-school setting preferred.
• Proven strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Must have the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously while maintaining a high level of professionalism.
• Must demonstrate a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and adhering to ethical communication practices.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency in current technology and communication tools.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and judgment skills.
• Experience with crisis communications.
• Knowledge of communication best practices and the ability to apply them effectively.

Interested in applying for this position?
Submit your application at https://www.applitrack.com/palmyra/onlineapp/. All applicants are required to submit a PA Standard Application, letter of interest, resume, transcripts, copy of certificate, 3 reference letters, PA Child Abuse Clearance, PA Criminal Record Check, and FBI Background Check.

• We want you to submit your application if you are interested in being considered - even if you do not have all the required items at the time of application. If you do not have all the items required at the time of application, please submit a Word.doc with an explanation of where you are at in each process to be able to submit your application by the deadline. For example, if you are waiting on a letter of reference, simply upload a Word.doc that states "requested reference letter from [NAME] on [DATE]. Upon receipt, log back into your account and replace the Word.doc with the actual document received.

Internal applicants are required to submit an application, resume, and letter of interest. To apply as an internal candidate, please click "View internal positions."

Questions? Contact HR.

Mrs. Angela Hepner, Director of Human Resources
Palmyra Area School District, District Office
1125 Park Drive, Palmyra, PA  17078
angela_hepner@pasd.us (preferred)
(717) 838-3144, Option 9