<p>Job Description:</p> <p>PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER</p> <p>Introduction: This job description is intended to be used in conjunction with an employee's annual performance evaluation documents to establish and verify functional competency on an on-going basis while employed with Middletown Public School System, (MPS)</p> <p>Basic Purpose: To serve as the primary spokesperson for Middletown Public Schools, leading internal, external, and crisis communications efforts that support the district's strategic goals, while providing counsel to leadership and coordinating innovative, effective communication strategies across departments.</p> <p>Job Qualifications:</p> <ul> <li>Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications or related field required. </li><li>Minimum Work Experience: Two years of experience in a public information or marketing role required. </li><li>Required Licenses/Certifications: Valid State Driver's license required. </li></ul> <p>Job Requirements:</p> <p>Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:</p> <ul> <li>Ability to display flexibility to meet the operational demands of the department activities required. Knowledge of and ability to comply with Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) regulations. </li><li>Ability to maintain and preserve confidential information required. </li><li>Ability to adhere to and model organizational values and Work Pillars required. </li><li>Ability to interact with students, families, co-workers and members of the public in a courteous and professional manner required. </li><li>Knowledge of and ability to successfully utilize a wide variety of software platforms including, but not limited to, Google Suite and Microsoft Office suite, emergency communication platforms, and social media platforms required. </li><li>Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing required. </li><li>Ability to communicate complex issues in a clear and understandable manner required. </li><li>Knowledge of and ability to create effective graphic design work in a variety of mediums required. </li><li>Excellent proofreading and editing skills required. </li><li>Ability to effectively operate and use a variety of communication platforms used by the District to notify parents, community members, the public, employees etc. required. </li><li>Ability to work nights, weekends and holidays required. </li></ul> <p>Essential Functions:</p> <ol> <li> <p>Serves as the District's Public Records Officer; respond to and manage all Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.</p> </li><li> <p>Monitors and responds to emails sent to the district's public access inbox; direct inquiries to appropriate departments.</p> </li><li> <p>Drafts, edits, and distributes routine communications including, but not limited to press releases, alerts, newsletters, and statements.</p> </li><li> <p>Maintains and updates the district website with accurate and timely content.</p> </li><li> <p>Manages the district's mass notification system for communications to families and staff.</p> </li><li> <p>Operates and posts content to official district social media accounts (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X).</p> </li><li> <p>Responds to media inquiries and provide approved messaging to support transparency and accuracy.</p> </li><li> <p>Coordinates distribution of emergency communications, such as weather delays or crisis notifications.</p> </li><li> <p>Attends Board of Education meetings as needed to support communication efforts and take notes or provide summaries.</p> </li><li> <p>Creates basic visual materials, flyers, and branded content using district templates and guidelines.</p> </li><li> <p>Ensures consistency of branding and tone in district communications.</p> </li><li> <p>Assists in developing talking points and public messaging as directed by the Superintendent or designee.</p> </li><li> <p>Collaborates with district leaders and school staff to share approved updates and information with families and the public.</p> </li><li> <p>Maintains a basic awareness calendar (e.g., public education weeks, holidays) and assist in light campaign coordination and outreach activities as assigned.</p> </li><li> <p>Provides general public relations support for events and announcements.</p> </li><li> <p>Monitors public feedback and sentiment through digital platforms and escalate concerns when appropriate.</p> </li><li> <p>Be available during off-hours as needed to assist with urgent communications.</p> </li><li> <p>Performs other duties as directed.</p> </li></ol>