Prologue
Last week, I spoke at the SPARC National Conference in Scottsdale, AZ. SPARC stands for Summer Programs and Auxiliary Revenue Collaborative, and if you work at a school that charges tuition, you should ABSOLUTELY learn more about it.
I spoke to numerous attendees who shared story after story about the amount of money that their summer and auxiliary programs generated for their school. It's pretty impressive!
Also, I had a chance to speak with a few of the team members at SPARC (Nat, Bob, David, and Karen), who were smart, friendly, generous, and generally awesome people.
I sincerely hope that you'll learn more about SPARC!
Thanks,
Brendan
P.S. My good friend Peter Baron, who was also presenting at the conference, and I ate dinner at Pizzeria Bianco. The restaurant's owner was highlighted in the Netflix series Chef's Table, and I can tell you that it did not disappoint! I highly recommend a visit if you are ever in Scottsdale.
Recommended Reading
Why Schools Struggle with Engagement - and How to Turn it Around
Schools face significant challenges in engaging parents, students, and staff due to information overload and disconnected messaging. To address this, the article suggests focusing on clear, value-driven communication, personalizing content, and being strategic about message timing. AI tools can help tailor messages to individual preferences, while consistent and relevant updates can cut through the noise. Encouraging two-way dialogue and feedback also boosts engagement. Small shifts in approach, like aligning messages with core values and using data to personalize communication, can significantly improve school engagement strategies.
A World Perspective on Crisis Communication
This article highlights the importance of global awareness in crisis communication. In an interconnected world, events in one region can quickly impact others, requiring crisis professionals to be prepared for global ramifications. The author emphasizes the need for risk management and crisis plans to account for international media, cross-border communication strategies, and learning from global events. Organizations must ensure senior leaders understand these global dynamics and are equipped to respond swiftly. The increasing speed of global communication makes it critical to regularly review and update crisis communication plans.
SEO
The Complete SEO Checklist to Boost Rankings in 2024
The Semrush 2024 SEO Checklist is a comprehensive guide that covers key tasks to help boost website rankings in search engines. It emphasizes crucial aspects like technical SEO, keyword research, on-page optimization, and content quality. Some top tips include setting up Google Search Console to monitor site performance, optimizing URL structures for readability and SEO-friendliness, and using keyword-rich headings and content. The guide also highlights improving user experience through organized site navigation, fast-loading images, and structured internal linking. Additionally, it touches on the importance of schema markup to enhance visibility in search results.
Technology
Independent Schools: What is the Process for Updating Your Website?
Design TLC’s article provides a thorough roadmap for independent schools looking to update their websites, emphasizing the necessity of reflecting the school’s current aims and community engagement effectively. It outlines a detailed process, from assessing current content and gathering feedback to defining objectives, planning updates, and ensuring all changes enhance user experience and site functionality. The guide is crucial for schools aiming to maintain an up-to-date and impactful online presence.
Miscellaneous
Understanding and Leveraging Data for Independent Schools with James Riley
In this episode of Mindful School Marketing, we sit down with James Riley, a former high school math and statistics teacher of 20 years who now runs Forward Dataworks, a company with a goal to address the growing need for schools to make data-driven decisions. James brings some fascinating insights on how independent and private schools can tap into the power of data for smarter decision-making, especially when it comes to admissions and strategic planning. We dive into everything from quick surveys and demographic analysis to targeted marketing strategies.
MarCom Job
Director of Communications @ Manhattan Country School, Inc.
The Director of Communications is a full-time position responsible for ensuring cohesive, clear, and consistent communication that effectively engages all stakeholders—current and prospective families, faculty and staff, alumni, alumni families, and the broader community.
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Social Media
Mastering the Art of Instagram Takeovers: Boost Your School's Engagement
Instagram takeovers are a powerful way for schools to increase engagement and showcase their unique community from new perspectives. By allowing students, faculty, or even mascots to take over the school’s Instagram account, schools can create fun and authentic content that highlights daily life, special events, and behind-the-scenes moments. Careful planning, including selecting the right person, using a mix of Instagram formats like Reels and Stories, and ensuring good communication, can make these takeovers a hit, drawing in prospective students and fostering community interaction.
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