The Bespoke Blog

Blog, Tips

You, Me, I, or We? Finding Your Voice

Education leaders are responsible for a variety of messages. Some messages are straightforward and businesslike, while others require more nuance. But a key part of how we set the tone comes from how we address our audience.

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Blog

Navigating Cultural Controversy

It’s all too common to come across school districts in the news facing backlash for a cultural controversy. Perhaps it was a controversial food served during Black History Month, or a classroom activity that upset some of the parents. As a school leader, how do you navigate the crisis successfully?  Cultural backlash can make a […]

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Blog

Give your School a Service Check-Up

Have you ever received service so good that you immediately started telling people about it?  Whether it’s a barista who went the extra mile to spell your name correctly on your coffee cup, or the relief of reaching a real live customer service representative (not a bot) who can help resolve your problem, a small […]

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Blog

What To Do During a First Amendment Audit

  As a superintendent, you know your day is going to be full of tasks, both little and big. So, the last thing you want to deal with is a stranger suddenly entering your workplace and recording everything they see. You have never seen this person, but they walk around confidently, examining every last inch […]

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Blog, Education, Tips

Navigating Budget Communications for School District Leaders

From California to Massachusetts, school districts across the nation are bracing for steep cuts to education funding. How can school leaders best keep communities informed while navigating this challenging fiscal environment?  Look and listen  Too often, leaders hesitate to communicate in the face of uncertainty. But this risky strategy can leave your audiences vulnerable to […]

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Blog

Communication Strategies that Help Boost Enrollment

Strong enrollment rates are critical to the continued success of any school district! With school enrollment dates soon approaching, a savvy communication strategy is a key component to a high enrollment rate.  Elevate your district’s enrollment communication with the following ways: Strong Data Determining what data is relevant for your district is an important step. […]

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Blog

Leading your District with Empathy

Leading with empathy involves understanding and valuing the emotions, perspectives, and needs of those in your district and community. In a time when the community is often divided, empathy can be used as a powerful tool to unite when communicating with all in your district.  Now, how can one go about leading their district’s communication […]

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Blog

Have an Inclusive Holiday Season

What does “the holiday season” mean to you? If you’re like most Americans, your “holiday” of choice is Christmas, with an estimated 85% of people marking that particular holiday. But the popularity of Christmas also means that this season can feel oppressive or lonely for those who don’t celebrate the holiday.  For school leaders who […]

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Blog

Highlighting your District: American Education Week

As Thanksgiving approaches, so does American Education Week, observed Nov. 13-17th. Each day of the week has a different theme to honor the hard work of those who run public schools, shining a spotlight on the teachers, classroom professionals, cafeteria staff and other educators that make an impact in students’ lives. As a leader in […]

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Blog, NS News

Lesley Bruinton’s Foray into Higher Ed

It is with mixed emotions that we announce the departure of Lesley Bruinton, APR, from her role as Executive Vice President of Nichols Strategies. Lesley has been a valued team member for nearly two years, and during her time with us, she has made a significant impact on our organization. While we are sad to […]

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