Promoting a Positive Image: Public Relations Strategies for Special Educators

Abstract

Public relations for schools has been a topic of discussion for many years. Application of public relations campaigns to the field of special education though, has not been prevalent. Special educators have their hands full already! They must teach the students, keep parents informed, collaborate with fellow educators for inclusion, and provide real life experiences in the community, while communicating a positive image of their students, co-workers, school, and neighborhood. It is important to understand the special educator's role and to have strategies that can help advocate and communicate the plight and successes of children with special needs. By starting a public relations campaign the first day of school that continues throughout the year, a special educator can do a lot to promote the positive image and increase awareness for the incontestable rights of students. This article provides a monthly calendar of suggested activities as well as general guidelines for getting a public relations campaign started that can work as well in a small rural school as in a big inner city school.