Interview with John Helmholdt, Communications & External Affairs Coordinator for Grand Rapids Public Schools
This week we talk with John Helmholdt, Communications & External Affairs Coordinator for Grand Rapids Public Schools about what is involved in running a communications department for the 3rd largest district in the State of Michigan.
With quick smile John quips: "I like to define (the position as) a professional firefighter, a little pick pocketing, some herd management, cat herding, a little ego management, but, no; in all seriousness, it is very unique in the sense that we are -- we are the third largest district. We have 20,000 students, 3,400 employees and we have a two-person communication office. So we really have a lot on our plate."
When asked about the most pressing issues facing large urban schools John tell us it's "breaking down, tearing down false perceptions. Too many people have developed perceptions of schools, yet, they have never set foot in a single building."
We hope you enjoy the show.
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