Job Description

DELTA COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 50J

Public Information Officer - Half Time

Position TypeDistrict Classified Administration / Professional StaffLocationDistrict OfficeSchool Year2026-2027ContractHalf Time - 249 DaysReports ToSuperintendentSalarySalary range commensurate with education and experience; placement according to the Board-approved salary scheduleBenefitsHealth insurance available through the School District; retirement benefits through Colorado PERAClosing DateUntil Filled

The Public Information Officer supports Delta County School District 50J by coordinating clear, timely, and consistent communication with staff, families, the Board of Education, the media, and the community. The position leads strategic communications, media relations, public information, District publications, digital communications, branding, crisis communications, and community engagement. The position works closely with the Superintendent and serves as the District spokesperson when designated.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum of three years of successful experience in public education, communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, solve problems, meet deadlines, and implement complex projects.
• Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Fingerprint and background clearance.
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may find appropriate and acceptable.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced degree in communications, public administration, education, or a related field.
• Experience in journalism, strategic communications, public relations, marketing, website management, or social media.
• Experience developing communication strategies and preparing public-facing materials for varied audiences.
• Bilingual English/Spanish communication skills.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive District communication plan that supports the District mission, Board priorities, strategic goals, and public trust.
• Serve as a communications advisor to the Superintendent, Board of Education, District leadership, and schools regarding initiatives, issues, events, and public messaging.
• Identify ongoing and emerging communication needs and develop coordinated strategies for internal and external audiences.
• Serve as the District spokesperson when designated, respond to media inquiries, and prepare appropriate staff members for interviews or public statements.
• Write, edit, and distribute press releases, newsletters, feature stories, public notices, talking points, presentations, flyers, brochures, annual reports, advertisements, and other District communications.
• Manage or coordinate content for the District website, social media accounts, mass-notification systems, and other digital communication platforms.
• Coordinate District branding and support schools and departments in maintaining accurate, accessible, and consistent communications.
• Advise District and school leaders regarding crisis and emergency communications and coordinate messaging with public agencies and community partners when appropriate.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with families, staff, local media, business and community leaders, elected officials, area educators, and other key constituencies.
• Attend Board of Education meetings and other District or community events as assigned; prepare presentations and public information materials as needed.
• Coordinate communication and public information for District elections and ballot measures in compliance with applicable legal requirements and Board direction.
• Promote student, staff, school, and District accomplishments through appropriate media and communication channels.
• Provide communication support for special events, public meetings, recognitions, community outreach, and other projects assigned by the Superintendent.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work independently and collaboratively to maintain a professional, responsive, and service-oriented work environment.
• Interact effectively and professionally with students, families, staff, administrators, Board members, media representatives, community partners, and the public.
• Follow oral and written instructions and comply with District, state, and federal policies, procedures, rules, and regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student, family, personnel, and District information.
• Keep current with relevant laws, regulations, research, technology, communication practices, and professional standards.
• Attend meetings, conferences, training sessions, and professional development activities as required.
• Travel throughout the District and attend occasional evening or weekend meetings and events.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent that are consistent with the responsibilities of the position.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of public relations, journalism, strategic communications, media relations, marketing, branding, and digital communication practices.
• Ability to obtain, organize, analyze, and communicate complex information for audiences with varied interests and levels of understanding.
• Ability to write and edit clear, accurate, compelling, and audience-appropriate materials under tight deadlines.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in the release of information and in handling sensitive or confidential matters.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines with a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to facilitate collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, web content-management systems, social media platforms, newsletter tools, and mass-notification systems.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work is primarily performed in an office and school environment with frequent computer use and interaction with District employees and the public. The position requires travel among District sites and availability for occasional evening and weekend meetings, events, or urgent communications. The employee must be able to sit or stand for extended periods, use a computer keyboard and other office equipment, and occasionally lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

EVALUATION

Performance will be evaluated by the Superintendent or designee in accordance with Board policy and established District procedures.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

In compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act, and applicable Colorado law, Delta County School District 50J is committed to equal opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate in its educational programs, activities, services, or employment. For complete information, please refer to Board Policy AC: Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity.