Calling all school communication professionals! We know how busy back-to-school season is for school and district leaders, so we’ve gathered some tips specifically for our friends in school communications, public relations and marketing.
As the back-to-school season approaches, you are at the forefront of communicating vital information to staff, families and the community. Amidst the busyness and high demands of this time, it’s crucial to prioritize both your time and mental well-being. In this blog, we will explore effective strategies to help you manage your time, reduce stress and maintain your mental health during the back-to-school season. Let’s dive in!
Set priorities and establish boundaries
Create a clear list of priorities and identify tasks that require immediate attention. Break them down into manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for each task. Communicate your availability and set boundaries to avoid overwhelming yourself with constant demands. Remember that it’s okay to prioritize or delegate tasks when necessary.
Create a well-structured schedule
Develop a well-structured schedule that allows for focused work time, breaks and self-care. Block out time for important tasks, meetings and communication efforts. Dedicate time each day for activities that recharge you, such as exercise, mindfulness, hobbies or spending time with loved ones. Adhering to a schedule helps maintain a sense of control and balance.
ParentSquare makes your job easy with automatic posting to social media and your website. With a few extra clicks, you can choose to send your post to approved social media accounts and to a newsfeed on your district’s website. You can also create posts and schedule them ahead of time on the platform.
Practice effective communication
Establish clear and efficient communication channels to streamline your interactions with staff, families and the community. Utilize technology platforms, templates or pre-scheduled newsletters to automate and organize routine communications. Encourage the use of FAQs or self-help resources to empower stakeholders to find answers independently when possible.
Delegate and collaborate
Recognize that you cannot do everything alone. Delegate tasks to capable team members or seek collaboration when appropriate. Distribute responsibilities, leverage the skills of others and foster a team-oriented approach. Effective delegation not only lightens your workload but also encourages professional growth and strengthens the overall communication efforts of your team.
Seek support and build connections
Reach out for support when needed. Connect with other school district communications professionals to share experiences and learn from one another. Consider joining professional networks or attending conferences to gain insights and build connections. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from mentors or supervisors who can offer valuable advice during challenging times.
PRO TIP! Make personal connections with school communication leaders that are working in neighboring districts. Meet regularly with them to discuss common issues, share resources where appropriate and build relationships with people who understand your role and what you’re going through. These can be some of the most important professional relationships that you can foster.
For current ParentSquare customers, take your networking to another level with our free Summer Camp training or join us at SquareCamp – our very first user conference this October! These specialized ParentSquare training opportunities are a great way to connect with other customers, share ideas and pick up a few tips or tricks.
Practice self-care
Prioritize self-care to maintain your mental well-being. Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax. Engage in regular exercise, get sufficient sleep, practice mindfulness or meditation, and nourish your body with healthy meals. Remember that taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity for effectively managing stress and sustaining your productivity.
Reflect and learn
Regularly reflect on your experiences and learn from them. Evaluate what worked well and what could be improved during the back-to-school season. Use this feedback to refine your strategies and make adjustments for future periods of high demand. Embrace a growth mindset, recognizing that each experience is an opportunity for growth and development.
PRO TIP! Keep a journal for professional growth where you can note your challenges, failures and your successes. Spend time reflecting on how you could have improved the failures and how you accomplished the successes. Use this space to record your aspirations for professional growth and any affirmations or tools you find particularly helpful.
As a school communications leader, your role is demanding, particularly during the back-to-school season. By implementing these strategies to manage your time effectively and prioritize your mental health, you can navigate this busy period with greater resilience and well-being. Remember to take care of yourself so that you can continue to serve your school community effectively.
ParentSquare is here to help you prepare for a successful school year. Learn more about these features and many more by booking a demo today!
