Arlington Heights District 25 Enhances Community Connection Through Strategic Storytelling

The Arlington Heights School District 25 Board of Education meeting on July 15, 2025, focused on the district's communication strategies and community engagement efforts. Adam Harris, the head of communications and storytelling, presented an overview of the district's mission to foster connections with the community through effective messaging and storytelling.

Harris emphasized the dual purpose of the communications department: to provide strategic support for staff and to share the vibrant stories of the schools. He highlighted the importance of creating a sense of pride and connection within the community, noting that every communication tool, from newsletters to social media posts, is designed to enhance the district's image and foster trust.

During the presentation, Harris shared impressive statistics regarding the district's communication efforts over the past year. The department published 222 communications, including newsletters and social media posts, and the district's website received nearly 400,000 visits. Social media engagement was also notable, with 354 total posts across platforms, resulting in approximately 930,000 views.

Harris discussed the significance of storytelling in building community awareness and pride. He shared a standout video featuring a student who saved a friend's life, which garnered 75,000 views on Facebook, illustrating the impact of personal stories on community engagement.

Looking ahead, Harris announced plans for a website redesign aimed at improving user experience and accessibility. He expressed excitement about the upcoming refresh of the district's strategic plan, which will further enhance communication efforts.

Board members praised Harris for his dedication and the positive impact of his work on students, parents, and the community. They acknowledged the importance of equitable communication across all schools and expressed appreciation for Harris's proactive approach in seeking out stories to share.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue fostering community connections and enhancing communication strategies to support the district's mission.