Head of Planning

Director II - Strategic Engagement

Reports to: Senior Executive Director of Communications

The Director of Strategic Engagement leads strategic efforts to foster strong, lasting relationships between Fort Worth ISD and its families, staff, students, and community members. This role is responsible for designing and delivering meaningful experiences and facilitating community partnerships that reflect the district's values and support the goals of the strategic plan. Through thoughtful planning, outreach, and collaboration, the Director ensures events and engagement initiatives are inclusive, well‑executed, and aligned with FWISD's mission to educate all students for success.

Support the planning and implementation of district-wide events (Convocation, Graduation, GoldSeal Expo, New Teacher Academy, FWISD Awards, Pre‑K/Kinder Roundup, Student Recognition events, State of the District, Groundbreaking, Ribbon‑cutting ceremonies, etc.).

Support the planning and implementation of programs that engage community members and connect FWISD to the community.

Manage event logistics, including venue selection, catering, décor, audiovisual needs, schedules, scripts, seating charts, registration lists, name tags and other materials.

Support the district’s volunteer engagement efforts, including managing the volunteer database and recruitment.

Facilitate partnerships with local service providers to expand access to mental health, housing, vision, and other critical services.

Collaborate on strategies to increase sponsorship opportunities by engaging corporate partners and community organizations.

Help develop promotional materials such as invitations, brochures, event programs, social media posts, and press releases in collaboration with the communications team.

Research trends in event planning and community engagement to recommend innovative approaches.

Work closely with other communication team members to ensure cohesive messaging across all platforms.

Provide on‑site event support during evenings or weekends as needed.

Provide consultation on special projects as needed by other departments or district staff.

Serve as the lead on the district’s mass notification system (Parentlink and ParentSquare), managing the system’s effectiveness, ensuring messages are shared effectively, and providing training and reports to staff.

Use surveys, attendance metrics, and engagement data to assess the success of events and inform future planning.

Skill in written and oral communications, including the ability to interact with and influence all levels of central office and campus staff, as well as parents.

Demonstrate awareness of district‑community needs and initiate activities to meet those needs.

Build and maintain transformational relationships with community leaders and external partners, while cultivating positive and productive collaboration.

Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, with the Board of Education, school administrative staff, outside agencies, the public, and news media, demonstrating tact and diplomacy.

Create and implement a consistent feedback loop with stakeholders to solicit input, assess progress, and use information to improve strategy implementation.

Manage the database and background‑check process for all district volunteers and provide volunteer opportunities for families and the community.

Manage multiple campaigns and deadlines while maintaining high‑quality output.

Exercise discretion regarding matters of a sensitive or confidential nature.

Engage in self‑evaluation regarding performance and professional growth.

Travel Requirements

Travel to school‑district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment, including computer and peripherals; communications and marketing equipment, including digital/video camera, microphones/speakers, and props for events.

Works in an office setting, may require occasional, irregular, and/or prolonged hours.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, or a related field required.

Experience: 6 years of work‑related experience in project management, non‑profit, public relations, communications, and large‑scale event planning.

equipment violations.

No reckless driving, speed contests, drag racing, or highway racing.

No use of a vehicle in the commission of a felony.

No history of a conviction in a commercial or personal motor vehicle.

Additional restrictions may apply if directed by FWISD’s Fleet Insurance Carrier.

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