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TEAM UP ProjectTraining all staff to become school ambassadors

Presented by Nicole Kaufman

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District Strategic Plan-Strategy #1

We will reignite the community’s passion and commitment for our schools in order to build a world-class school system.

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Research - TEAM UP for Oregon Public SchoolsA partnership of seven statewide education associations

A key to improving public perception of Oregon schools is to improve what internal groups – employees- say publicly about schools.

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Schools and students are succeeding.

Students are involved in the community.

Parents are involved in the schools.

Districts are spending money wisely.

RESEARCH What does the public want to know about our schools?

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ACTIONDevelop method for assessing the knowledge, perceptions and behaviors of the District’s 2,000 employees.

Use assessment data to guide employee communications training, incorporating key messages from TEAM UP Oregon Project.

Develop a schedule for assessment and training to occur during the 2007-08 school year.

Key Questions Considered for Survey Development

•What are the staff perceptions of the District?

•How well-informed are they on “important” topics?

•What information are they currently communicating?

•Do they feel a sense of responsibility to communicate positively?

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Planning Considerations

•Employees are located at more than 32 work sites.•Each school/department culture is unique.•Employees have various education levels and length of employment.•Licensed and classified staff are represented by Unions.

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Communication

•Scheduled and conducted surveys and training sessions for each location to be held September –May.

•Administered online survey to each site 1-2 weeks prior to training. Analyzed and compiled summary data prior to training.

•Met with staff at their school/department sites for training.

•Collected additional data from meetings.

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Evaluation of TEAM UP Project

Most staff believe:• They are “key communicators” and their role affects public

perception.• Our schools are succeeding.• They are well-informed about the schools.

Staff need more information about: • Students participating in community service activities.• Examples of parent and community involvement in the

schools.• The District’s budget and fiscal responsibility.

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Results

•Communications Department received a noticeable increase in requests for press releases, story ideas and information regarding school news and announcements throughout the year.

•Principals requested assistance in developing public relations plans and key messages for their individual schools.