General Communication
In the general communications function, school business officials maximize their tools to become both listeners and communicators, demonstrating skills in presenting, writing and verbal communication. They understand effective communication strategies and techniques and are able to use the various tools available.
A school business official understands and demonstrates the ability to:
- Demonstrate strong written, verbal, non-verbal communication skills
- Comprehend effective communication strategies and techniques and assist in the development and implementation for both external and internal communications.
- Identify and understand the components of public information management and public relations
- Develop a clear understanding of the major stakeholders within the school authority.
- Present financial data to various school and community stakeholders in a variety of formats, including the district website, communication tools, or social media platforms.
- Assist in the development of procedures for the management of public information programs and departments that relate to school-community relations.
- Assist in the development of a plan for a positive school-community relations program for the business office and the school authority.
SOCIAL MEDIA
In this function, school business officials ensure there are appropriate social media policies and processes in place for everyone in the system - including children, teachers, the board and other staff members. They understand the legislation, privacy policies and copyright legislation around social media, and know when to use social media for crisis communications. They also follow the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIP) Act and know how it impacts school authorities.
A school business official understands and demonstrates the ability to:
- Understand the major tools, categories, and possible uses of social networking.
- Understand copyright, security and privacy legislation as it relates to the use of social media sites and how it impacts the school authority.
- Understand the importance of digital identity and reputation management using social media.
- Navigating, evaluating, and creating professional content on social networking sites.
- Assist in the development of acceptable use policies and practices for networking and social learning for everyone in the system.
- Follow netiquette, conform to ethical standards and interact appropriately with others online.
