Communications Specialist

Communications SpecialistJoin the CESO TeamAt CESO, we partner with school districts to deliver strategic, thoughtful communication that builds trust, strengthens engagement, and brings their stories to life. We're looking for a Communications Specialist to support one of our client districts, St. Anthony-New Brighton School District (ISD 282), while also collaborating with our broader CESO Communications team. As part of the CESO Communications team, you'll receive ongoing coaching and mentoring from experienced school communications professionals while serving as a trusted partner to district leaders. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys storytelling, working closely with leaders, and creating meaningful, consistent communication across a variety of platforms.This role is on-site at the SANB District Office with the ability to work remotely or from the CESO HQ one day per week.What You'll DoAs a Communications Specialist, you'll support district initiatives that strengthen community trust, staff engagement, and public understanding of district priorities. You'll do this by developing content, building relationships with stakeholders, managing key channels, and ensuring messaging is clear, consistent, and aligned with district priorities.ResponsibilitiesSupport the implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of the district's strategic communications planHelp communicate district initiatives, programs, priorities, and key messages to internal and external audiencesContribute to efforts that support student enrollment, staff recruitment, and community engagementContent & StorytellingDevelop and create engaging written and visual content to highlight district programs, people, and impactProduce communications across multiple formats, including newsletters, website content, social media, and print materialsEnsure all content aligns with the district's brand, voice, and messagingWebsite & Digital CommunicationsLead district website content strategy and oversee website content, ensuring information is accurate, timely, user-friendly, and aligned with district communication goalsUse the website as the district's primary storytelling and marketing toolSupport digital communication strategies to effectively reach key audiencesHelp ensure websites, digital communications, and digital documents meet accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG), supporting equitable access for all usersLeadership CommunicationsServe as a trusted communications partner to district leaders by providing strategic counsel on messaging, stakeholder engagement, and communication planningSupport district, building, and program leaders in communicating effectively with families, staff, and community stakeholdersCoordinate communication related to School Board actions, district initiatives, and leadership decisions in a timely, transparent and accessible mannerPromote district transparency by supporting responses to public records requests and other information requests in accordance with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act and district policies and procedures.Media RelationsIdentify opportunities for positive media coverage and storytelling that elevate district successes and initiativesAssist district and school leaders in coordinating communications related to emergencies, sensitive issues, and leadership decisionsProcess & Continuous ImprovementMonitor and analyze communication effectiveness using analytics, stakeholder feedback, and engagement metrics to inform continuous improvementIdentify opportunities to improve messaging, engagement, and deliverySupport consistent, high-quality communication practices across the districtWho You AreA strong writer and storyteller who can adapt messaging for different audiencesOrganized and able to manage multiple projects at onceA collaborative partner who enjoys working with leaders and teamsDetail-oriented with a strong eye for quality and consistencyComfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environmentEducation & QualificationsBachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field preferred2+ years of professional experience in communications or a related fieldExperience with content creation across written and visual formats (articles, social media, video, etc.)Familiarity with website management and content management systems; knowledge of digital accessibility standards and best practices (e.g., WCAG) preferredKnowledge of AP style writing and editing standardsExperience with tools such as Google Workspace, Canva, and/or Adobe Creative Suite preferredAbility to communicate effectively with diverse audiencesPerks & BenefitsPay Range: $62,000–$72,000 annuallyAs a full-time employee, you will have access to the following benefits: Health, dental, and disability insurance401(k) with company contributionsFlexible schedulePaid time off + paid holidaysCollaborative, mission-driven team environmentCESO Communications is committed to rethinking possible. Our nationally recognized team of school communication professionals brings more than 300 years of combined experience, and every senior strategist holds the Accredited in Public Relations (APR) credential. We partner with school districts across the country to deliver strategic communications that build trust, solve problems, and create meaningful impact.