Superintendent of
Perry Township Schools
Perry Township prides itself in maintaining an open line of communication with the public. It is vital for the community to be knowledgeable about its school district while building and maintaining a sense of trust in its schools.
A well-crafted public relations plan provides the community with the information to be confident that its students are safe and acquiring a quality education.
Our school board expects its employees to be actively involved in community events. Each month there are always several programs planned to nurture, strengthen and increase our partnerships within the school community.
The township’s reputation is strong and well-respected, as evidenced by being invited to present its approach to conducting two successful referendums.
Vivian Leach, campaign manager of the 2011 referendums, Charles R. Mercer Jr., a school board member; representatives from the Winston/Terrell Group; Paula Clegg, communications coordinator for the district; and I will conduct this presentation before an audience of superintendents, school board members and public relations staff from across the state.
We are honored to share our experience with others and to discuss the positive aspects of our school district. When a district experiences success, it translates to success for the entire community.
Later this month we will host our fourth annual pastors breakfast. The outreach program is growing in strength and numbers, and we are excited that attendance continues to climb. I will provide an update of the district: construction work, transportation, enrollment trends, budgetary items, achievements, future goals and our challenges. We will discuss the pastors’ involvement and support in our schools for meeting the needs of our children.
Our clergy members interact with thousands of people throughout the week. They know their communities and are in a unique position. I appreciate their openness to share any concerns they hear about our schools. The exchange of perspectives is invaluable.
We encourage churches to “adopt” a school, and we value the relationships we have made with the churches within our township. These church groups offer guidance when we experience a loss or have a need for family counseling. They also provide support in purchasing school supplies and other items.
In addition to connections outside the school family, I firmly believe that you must build bridges and listen to your students. Each semester I have a working luncheon with a group of student leaders from Perry Meridian and Southport high schools. We discuss topics such as social media, class options/schedules, instruction, bullying, school spirit, safety, construction, technology, communication and other matters.
I am interested to hear their ideas for the future, as well as what is successful and what can be improved. These connections provide insight and help us make future decisions.
Perry Township Schools: community-focused, community-driven.