Carson City Schools look at marketing plan

The Carson City School District is doing well, Superintendent Richard Stokes told trustees, but the community isn’t always aware of that.

He discussed during Tuesday’s school board meeting coming up with a plan to better communicate with parents, businesses and those looking to relocate.

“We’re looking at ways to talk about the things we do as a school district in a meaningful way,” he said.

He said the district is in the process of drafting a professional services contract for public relations and marketing work, and expects to take proposals on that next month.

They’ve also spoken with Western Nevada College, he said, about hiring a journalism intern at $2,500 per semester to help with written documents.

Other elements already in place are the telephone auto-dial system for announcements, as well as school committees involving parents, including the strategic plan board.

“More parents are helping to make decisions than ever before,” he said. “We have living, breathing individuals who are learning about what we’re doing. We’re able to share some of the great things that are going on.”

He said he’s hoping to enlist Carson High School students to produce a promotional video.

“They can help to showcase some of the great work that can be done by and for our students,” he said.

Making sure parents feel connected to schools and schools are open to them will also be a priority, especially at Carson High School.

“We’re throwing the doors wide open,” Stokes said.

Trustee Ron Swirczek agreed with the proposal.

“We want to tell the world why they should be coming here to the Carson City School District,” he said. “What makes the Carson City School District more attractive and vibrant for their business. We have a story to tell that’s pretty significant.”