Assessments: Waynesville R-VI School District
The challenge
Waynesville R-VI School District in Missouri was doing great things but felt that they lacked a strategic approach to communications efforts. As a rural district near a military base that serves mostly military families that move in and out of the area, it was important for the district to clearly communicate its identity and have consistency in voice and messaging. Waynesville partnered with CESO Communications for a Baseline Communications Assessment (BCA).
Our approach
Utilizing the Baseline Communications Assessment (BCA) model, CESO conducted a thorough assessment that provided Waynesville with a set of priorities centered on applying storytelling strategies to further enhance the district’s relationship with the community. The district team provided examples of work and had a discussion about what was currently happening as well as hope for future work. While the district already had strong efforts in place, CESO’s recommendations added structure and tactical next steps, enabling more effective communication. Among those steps was the development and execution of a strategic communications plan. Within the plan, particular attention was paid to Waynesville’s internal communications, which were taking up an inordinate amount of time. The plan leaned into the unique identity of the district and the community it serves.
Our impact
CESO changed my life with the baseline communications assessment they did for us. As a direct result of this audit, I became more effective and more efficient. For example, I spend at least three hours less each week on our newsletter, but the number of people reading it increased by more than 300%. Thanks to CESO’s guidance, we are more consistent with our brand, we are overhauling our website, and we have a strategic communications plan going to the board this month.
Marianne Ward
Director of Communications and Marketing