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Board approves new communications specialist role to centralize district messaging
Summary
The board approved creation of a communications specialist position with a proposed salary range of $57,000–$82,006.50 to handle digital media, stakeholder engagement and board administrative support; one board member voiced concern preferring funds be allocated to instructional staff instead.
The Lebanon Special School District board approved creating a district communications specialist position after administrators said district growth and community needs have increased demand for centralized communications and stakeholder outreach.
Staff described the role as responsible for website and digital media management, stakeholder communication, media relations, events, social media, and administrative support for board functions. Administrators recommended a competitive salary range for the role of $57,000 to $82,006.50, to be set depending on experience.
Board discussion focused on priorities for district spending. One board member said they had “wrestled” with whether the funds should instead be used for additional classroom teachers, special education or ESL staff; staff responded that the proposed FY26 budget includes 13 new classroom growth positions and that the communications role could be funded without eliminating planned teaching positions. Several board members argued the position would help principals and central staff by taking communications tasks off instructional leaders so they can focus on student needs.
A motion to add the communications specialist passed after a second; one board member recorded an opposed vote. Staff said the district will proceed with a panel interview and recruitment and will return with a hire recommendation and a proposed contract/salary placement.
Administrators said the role would also coordinate district messaging, clarify confusion with county‑level announcements (for example, when Wilson County closure notices are mistaken for district closures) and support parent engagement plans.
