Resources for your communications needs
We are passionate about helping you communicate better, clearly, and consistently.
Safe + Welcoming Schools Resource Guide
FREE
Recent changes in federal policy have allowed the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to arrest individuals in sensitive locations such as schools and churches, reversing long-standing guidelines that protected these spaces as zones free from enforcement activity. This shift has raised concerns among educators, families, and community advocates about the safety and well-being of students and their families, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds.
Schools have historically been places of safety, learning, and community—where students can focus on their education without fear of external threats. However, this policy change risks undermining that sense of security, causing anxiety and potential disruptions to the learning environment. Families may feel hesitant to engage with schools, and students may experience heightened stress, impacting their ability to succeed academically and socially.
In response, we’ve developed this toolkit to help schools and districts reaffirm their commitment to creating safe and welcoming environments for all students. The toolkit will include actionable steps districts can take, key messaging to reassure families, templates for official statements or resolutions, and a checklist to guide communications efforts.
By proactively providing resources, schools and districts can:
Demonstrate Leadership: Show their commitment to ensure their schools are welcoming and safe spaces by creating policies that protect all students.
Reduce Fear and Uncertainty: Reassure families that schools are safe spaces focused on education, not enforcement.
Strengthen Community Trust: Build stronger relationships with families through transparent and supportive communication.
This toolkit reflects our dedication to helping education leaders navigate this challenging issue while prioritizing the safety, dignity, and well-being of all students.
Purpose of the Toolkit
This toolkit is designed to help school districts reaffirm their commitment to ensuring all students learn in safe environments free from fear, regardless of their immigration status. It provides actionable steps, messaging guidance, and practical resources to equip districts with the tools they need to support their diverse communities effectively.
SMJ On Demand
FREE
“SMJ On Demand” – our video subscription series – provides schools, school districts, and colleges of education with ready-to-go trainings to watch individually or in group settings. More videos will be added each month this school year! From crisis comms to strategic planning to customer service, these 10-15 minute training videos are perfect to keep your and your team’s communication skills sharp.
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SMJ Training (In-Person)
$8,000 investment
(Travel is included)
Whether you’re an educational institution seeking professional development or a business aiming to enhance communication skills, we have the expertise to support your goals. These in-person or virtual sessions are engaging, fun, interactive and led by our Chief Excellence Officer, Sharise M. Johnson.
Media Training
Crisis Communications
Crisis Communications Simulation
Build Your Communications Infrastructure- Operations and Beyond
Customized Session
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SMJ Communications Fellowship
$5,000 investment
Our program is divided into two comprehensive segments. In the first three months, you’ll dive into the basics, branding, and strategic planning. The following three months focus on managing the message, engagement and relationships, and thought leadership. We cover key areas like media relations, branding, reputation management, crisis communications, social media, community engagement, interpersonal relationships, design basics, storytelling, and thought leadership.
Key Dates and Registration
Stay tuned for the announcement of our 2nd cohort of SMJ Fellows!
Looking to have your fellowship sponsored? Click here for an SMJ Fellowship Proposal Email Template to share with your organization’s leadership.
Crisis Communications Toolkit
FREE
When emergencies strike, effective communication is paramount. That’s why SMJ Communications is proud to present our Crisis Communications Toolkit, a comprehensive resource designed to support schools and districts in navigating common crises with confidence and clarity.
Ready-to-Use Templates: Simplify your response with pre-written letters to families and staff, website and social media content, and media statements, ensuring consistent messaging across all channels.
Key Features:
Customizable Templates: Tailor each communication to fit the unique needs and circumstances of your school or district, maintaining authenticity and relevance.
Accessible Format: Easily accessible digital format allows for immediate deployment, enabling swift action in response to emergencies.
Comprehensive Coverage: Address a wide range of crises, from natural disasters to security incidents, ensuring preparedness for any situation that may arise.
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Lottery Communications Toolkit
FREE
At SMJ Communications, we understand the importance of effectively promoting and amplifying your charter school or network’s upcoming lottery. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our Lottery Communications Toolkit, a comprehensive resource designed to help you increase awareness, engage families and staff, and ensure a seamless lottery experience from start to finish.
What’s Included:
Pre-, Day-of, and Post-Communications: Streamline your lottery communications with pre-written emails, letters, and social media posts, ensuring consistent messaging throughout the entire process.
Blogs and Social Media Content: Generate excitement and anticipation for your lottery with engaging blog posts and social media content, highlighting your school’s unique offerings and mission.
Customizable Graphics: Enhance your communications with professionally designed graphics and visuals, customizable to reflect your school’s branding and identity.
Key Features:
Comprehensive Coverage: From pre-lottery promotion to day-of logistics and post-lottery follow-up, our toolkit covers all aspects of lottery communications, ensuring a cohesive and coordinated approach.
Audience-Focused Messaging: Tailor your communications to resonate with families, staff, and community stakeholders, fostering a sense of connection and belonging within your school community.
Time-Saving Solutions: Save valuable time and resources with ready-to-use templates and graphics, allowing you to focus on delivering an exceptional lottery experience for participants.
