Ongoing Communications: Fox River Grove School District
The challenge
Fox River Grove School District, a small Illinois district with two schools, knew it needed to strengthen its communication with its community and board. With a new superintendent in place, district leaders recognized that while important work was happening, it was not being communicated clearly or consistently. The district’s website and internal communications lacked a clear strategy and limited storytelling about academic progress and district priorities. Leaders wanted more transparent, effective communications that built trust and engagement.
Our approach
CESO Communications partnered with Fox River Grove to build a strategic communications program from the ground up. Superintendent Dr. Matt Mayer and his administrative team empowered CESO to lead with strategy, creativity and authenticity.
Together, the teams established a clear communications direction centered on community connection. The rallying cry “D3 Connected” positioned the district as a trusted pillar of the community. CESO supported brand modernization through a refreshed logo and redesigned website, signaling a shift to a more modern, approachable identity.
CESO also helped establish a consistent, authentic voice across communications. Internal communications became a key focus, including the launch of The Mayer Minute, a concise staff newsletter built around a “know, do, share” framework. The first edition of the newsletter achieved a 92% open rate, and it continues to encourage staff to share stories that fuel external communications. District 3 also implemented a monthly pulse survey of its staff to monitor staff morale and campus culture throughout the year. With this information, CESO and the D3 leadership team determine how best to support staff members.
Our impact
The partnership led to stronger engagement with families, increased communication between parents and the superintendent, and higher community expectations for transparency. Early communications addressed academic challenges honestly, setting a tone of accountability and trust.
Over time, Fox River Grove strengthened its reputation as academic growth and student performance improved. What began as communications support evolved into a true partnership, with CESO serving as an extension of district leadership to help tell the district’s story with clarity and purpose.
Services provided
2024-Present
Ongoing Communications Support
including strategic messaging, content writing, internal communications, website support