Your annual enrollment count is the foundation of budgets, staffing, programs, and can be a temperature check for community trust. Across Washington state, school districts are facing declining enrollment. At Strategies 360, we approach enrollment like a marketing campaign. Here’s how to start:
- Define your value proposition
What sets your district apart? Is it career and technical education, dual-language, inclusive culture, or strong community partnerships? Use research to identify what families value, then make those differentiators central to your campaign. - Know your audiences and keep them engaged
Don’t just focus on attracting new families. Also focus on keeping the families you have. Tailor communications for distinct groups such as incoming kindergarten families, transfer students, and current families weighing their options for a middle school or high school. Each audience needs its own message, channels, and timing, so they feel seen and valued. Look at data throughout the year, such as yearly surveys and social media metrics, to proactively catch early warning signs that can guide the timing and tools of your marketing strategy. - Activate multi-channel outreach
Meet families where they are. Use digital ads, short-form video, targeted social campaigns, and community events to create visibility and excitement.
By approaching enrollment as a strategic, year-round marketing effort, you can maintain stability and potentially grow. If you’re ready to create a marketing enrollment strategy that gets results in an increasingly competitive environment, our team at Strategies 360 is here to help. Contact us at edteam@strategies360.com to learn more.