• Program Development
• Partners
• Communications
• Evaluations
• Samples

School partnership programs use internal and external communications tools to market the program. A communications plan, prepared by the program director, should be developed annually and include goals, measurable objectives, key messages, key audiences, face-to-face and written strategies, and tactics for communicating. Communication tactics may include:

• Partnership newsletter (two to three times a year)
• Partnership and/or district annual report
• Partners Web site
• Template for school and business Web sites promoting partnerships
• Posters, fliers and banners at school and business
• Video
• Decals on school and business locations
• Partnership orientation packet, brochures

Special events include:

• Kickoff event
• Orientation and training
• An annual recognition breakfast or luncheon
• High-profile events, such as CEO as principal for a day
• Adoption ceremonies held at the school

Media strategies include:

• Development of a targeted print and broadcast media list
• Media kit
• Press conference to kick off the program
• Media page on Web site
• Development of vignettes about successful partnerships
• Pitching stories about successful partnerships throughout the school year
• Talking points for media interviews