Graduate Program

Educational Administration

Degree Name

Education Specialist (EdS)

Semester of Degree Completion

1983

Thesis Director

Harry Merigis

Abstract

Public relations is an important part of any school district's total program. To be most effective, a written, planned public relations program should be used. This field experience deals with the development of a written, planned public relations program for the Newman Community Unit School District #303 in Newman, Illinois.

The author attempts to provide information that could be used by other educators who wish to develop a public relations program for their school district. Reasons why educators must provide information about the schools to the public and involve the public with the schools are discussed. The reasons for developing a public relations program for the Newman School District's and background information concerning the New School District and the author are presented. Several definitions of school public relations are also included.

A review of current educational literature is contained in this field experience. Reasons why schools should be concerned about public relations, methods of providing information to the various publics, and ways to receive feedback from these publics are discussed. Special areas of school public relations are also considered. Sources of current public relations information such as the National School Public Relations Association are cited.

A survey developed by the author to determine the public relations programs and activities being conducted by East Central Illinois school districts with enrollments of less than 2,000 students is presented. This presentation includes the survey instrument, the survey results, and a list of the school districts surveyed.

A public relations program for the Newman District is developed in this field experience. This program includes objectives, a schedule of public relations activities, and public relations responsibilities.

A summary and recommendations of the author conclude this paper. The recommendations include general recommendations concerning public relations and specific recommendations concerning the Newman public relations program.

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