WW: Beyond the Press Release: Building the HR and PR Partnership

Who?

Cathy Kedjidjian, Chief Communications Officer, Deerfield SD 109

Melanie Neuman, Communications Coordinator, Deerfield SD 109

What?

Human Resources and Public Relations have traditionally operated in separate lanes, but today's school districts require these two departments to work in close partnership. From responding to First Amendment auditors and managing sensitive employee situations to attracting top talent and celebrating the people who make a district exceptional, HR and PR play a critical role in protecting the district's reputation while strengthening its culture. This webinar explores how a collaborative approach can improve communication, reduce risk, and create a more consistent experience for employees, applicants, and the community.

Participants will examine four key areas where HR and PR intersect: navigating interactions with First Amendment auditors, building a compelling recruitment and employer branding strategy, coordinating communications during sensitive employee matters, and developing employee recognition and storytelling initiatives that improve retention and morale. Attendees will leave with practical strategies, real-world examples, and collaborative workflows that help both departments communicate with confidence, support one another's goals, and present a unified voice that reflects the district's values.