Blogs Archive - Strategies 360 https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/ Strategic Communications Across the West and Beyond Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:14:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.5 https://www.strategies360.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/cropped-s360-favicon-32x32.png Blogs Archive - Strategies 360 https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/ 32 32 What February’s Election Results Tell Us About the Path to Successful Ballot Measures https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/what-februarys-election-results-tell-us-about-the-path-to-successful-ballot-measures/ Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:07:03 +0000 https://www.strategies360.com/?post_type=blogs&p=9007 The February 10, 2026 Special Election reinforced trends we have been tracking in statewide research for several years: Washington voters still support public education, but they are more deliberate about how and why they invest. When we compare these outcomes to statewide research conducted in partnership with Piper Sandler, a clear pattern emerges. Voters are … Continued

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]]> The February 10, 2026 Special Election reinforced trends we have been tracking in statewide research for several years: Washington voters still support public education, but they are more deliberate about how and why they invest.

When we compare these outcomes to statewide research conducted in partnership with Piper Sandler, a clear pattern emerges. Voters are not turning away from public education. They are becoming more selective, more cost-conscious, and more focused on outcomes.

For districts planning future measures, the lesson is to strengthen your year-round engagement strategies.

The Research Trends Behind the Results

Our statewide survey of registered voters found:

  • 54 percent believe their local district needs more funding
  • 62 percent believe local property taxes are too high
  • Transparency and communication are the top drivers of trust

This tension between funding need and tax sensitivity defined the February ballot. Voters are willing to invest, but they expect clarity in return. Bridging this gap requires an integrated strategy that connects research to messaging to channels and year-round engagement.

February’s election results reflected S360’s research trends and findings almost exactly. The clearest takeaway is that voters continue to recognize the need for school investment, especially through levies, but growing tax sensitivity and higher expectations for accountability make the communications of the details of each proposal more important than ever.

What the Approved Measures Had in Common

The S360 team was proud to support 12 school districts and successful passage of 21 measures, securing nearly $4 billion for over 121,000 students.

When we look at districts where bonds and levies were approved, the communications playbook is consistent and follows a “Need – Plan – Accountability” structure. Successful measures:

  • Clearly explain why local funding is necessary and how it fits into Washington’s broader school funding structure. They often emphasize renewal or replacement when that’s the case, which lowers the temperature around tax concerns. They spell out exactly what the dollars will pay for — specific schools, projects, upgrades — instead of relying on broad phrases. And they address cost head-on, usually in plain language that helps voters understand what it means for them.
  • Are all about clarity. Voters appear willing to support school funding when they understand the problem, see a defined solution, and feel confident the investment is responsible. In a tax-sensitive environment, communications that reduce uncertainty and build trust can make the difference between majority support and a supermajority win.
  • Don’t stop after the election. In fact, districts who regularly share updates about past funding and plans for future funding show increased trust among their communities.

What This Means for District Leaders

Successful measures are grounded in:

  • Messaging that reflects local priorities. Baseline opinion research to understand funding sentiment and tax sensitivity means your messaging will accurately reflect what your community thinks
  • Clear articulation of specific projects and outcomes
  • Year-round communication that reaches beyond families

Looking Forward

February confirmed that Washington communities are willing to invest when they understand the why, the how, and the impact.

From baseline research and message testing to creative development, digital strategy, stakeholder engagement, and ongoing communications planning, our team partners with districts to build the systems that support successful measures. If you’re beginning to think about your next levy or bond, we’d welcome the conversation. Contact us at edteam@strategies360.com

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]]> Shift Your Thinking: Treat Enrollment Outreach Like a Marketing Campaign https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/shift-your-thinking-treat-enrollment-outreach-like-a-marketing-campaign/ Wed, 22 Oct 2025 18:56:44 +0000 https://www.strategies360.com/?post_type=blogs&p=8785 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 … Continued

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]]> 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

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]]> Top three back to school communications opportunities https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/top-three-back-to-school-communications-opportunities/ Thu, 28 Aug 2025 21:18:18 +0000 https://www.strategies360.com/?post_type=blogs&p=8761 The school year is here and so is your opportunity to connect with your community in ways that build trust, inspire support, and showcase the best of your district. From our work with school districts and our research, here are our top three recommendations to set the foundation for year-long success. 1. Connect with Your … Continued

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]]> The school year is here and so is your opportunity to connect with your community in ways that build trust, inspire support, and showcase the best of your district. From our work with school districts and our research, here are our top three recommendations to set the foundation for year-long success.

1. Connect with Your CTE Director 

In our research for districts and organizations, CTE programs consistently receive the strongest support from the public. Here are three ways you can get impactful student stories from your CTE Director.

  • Your CTE director has established industry partnerships that can provide stories your community wants to hear, like introducing industry partnerships in schools, to showcasing a student’s successful school-to-career or college journey.
  • Many CTE programs are great for showcasing hands-on learning. Visit a classroom for photos and stories of students learning transferable skills like teamwork.
  • Highlight your CTE facilities and celebrate what’s working, while addressing areas that need improvement. Showing you’re grateful for the funding from the community and how continued support can make learning come alive for more students!

2. Prepare for Levy Conversations 

If your district is considering a levy lid lift or future funding measure, now is the time to build trust with your community. Start conversations early, before the ask, to establish credibility and demonstrate transparency. A new school year is also a great time to evaluate and upate your “normal and regular” communications activities!

3. Set Your Year-Long Drumbeat 

Meet with your team now to identify major initiatives that need consistent highlighting throughout the year.

  • Running a bond? Start showcasing facility needs.
  • Facing enrollment challenges? Promote deadlines, open houses, and the student supports that make your district special.

Need ideas showcasing your district or explaining a levy lid lift? Let’s talk, email edteam@strategies360.com.

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]]> Internal First: How Early Communication Builds Trust and Advocacy https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/internal-first-how-early-communication-builds-trust-and-advocacy/ Thu, 26 Jun 2025 19:29:25 +0000 https://www.strategies360.com/?post_type=blogs&p=8703 During big initiatives or major changes, many leaders’ first instinct is to focus on external communications, crafting newsletters, social media posts, or press releases aimed at families and the broader community. But when it comes to building trust and maintaining strong relationships, our internal audiences—teachers, principals, classified staff—should always come first.  Research we’ve conducted for … Continued

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]]> During big initiatives or major changes, many leaders’ first instinct is to focus on external communications, crafting newsletters, social media posts, or press releases aimed at families and the broader community. But when it comes to building trust and maintaining strong relationships, our internal audiences—teachers, principals, classified staff—should always come first. 

Research we’ve conducted for over 30 school districts, regions/ESDs, and across Washington state shows that school staff are your most trusted messengers. They answer questions in the pickup line, hear hallway conversations, and field concerns in line at the grocery store. If they learn critical updates from a parent or see breaking news about their workplace on Facebook before hearing from district leadership, it can erode trust from within. 

Start with Staff, Every Time 

Make internal communications the start of your workflow.  When a big announcement is on the horizon, whether it’s a leadership change, a bond measure, a safety update, or new curriculum guidelines, your first question should be: “What is our staff communication strategy?” By looping staff in early, you empower them to be informed advocates for your district, and school building staff often bring insights central office may not have thought to consider. 

Strategies That Build Trust 

  • Pre-brief before public release: Send internal messages 15–30 minutes before you post externally. A short email that says, “Here’s what’s going out publicly in a few minutes” helps staff feel informed—not blindsided. 
  • Use plain language and answer the obvious questions: Don’t bury key info in jargon. Think: “What would I want to know if I worked at a school site?” Be clear, concise, and empathetic. 
  • Leverage principals and supervisors: Give building leaders talking points or a script they can share in staff meetings or emails. The goal is for frontline staff to hear directly from someone they know and trust—not just from the central office. 
  • Create space for feedback and questions: Even if you don’t have all the answers yet, invite dialogue. Provide a point of contact or hold a Q&A session. Acknowledging uncertainty while maintaining transparency builds credibility. 
  • Say thank you—often: Especially during rapid change or high-stress moments, your staff needs to hear that they’re appreciated. A well-timed message of gratitude can go a long way. 

How We Help 

As you’re planning any summer professional development, consider enhancing your internal communications tools and tactics. 

The Strategies 360 Education team partners with school districts to make internal communication intentional, timely, and effective. We help you: 

  • Develop internal communications plans that align with your priorities. 
  • Create toolkits with consistent messaging for principals and department leads. 
  • Provide crisis-communications support to inform internal staff. 

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]]> How to Leverage Video to Tell Your Story https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/how-to-leverage-video-to-tell-your-story/ Tue, 06 May 2025 23:42:58 +0000 https://www.strategies360.com/?post_type=blogs&p=8658 Make a Big Impact People act when they feel something. No tool evokes emotion better than photography and video. Through years of experience with diverse clients and brands, we’ve mastered these key tips for getting your point across to viewers in a way that leaves a lasting impact. Define Your Story Before we begin filming, we develop … Continued

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Make a Big Impact

People act when they feel something. No tool evokes emotion better than photography and video. Through years of experience with diverse clients and brands, we’ve mastered these key tips for getting your point across to viewers in a way that leaves a lasting impact.
Define Your Story

Before we begin filming, we develop a clear media brief to ensure alignment. This brief includes:

  • Key messages we want our images/video to communicate
  • Logistics of the day
  • What the photos/video will be used for (mailers, website, social media, fact sheets)

We understand the sensitivities of filming students and work with you to ensure we are following any privacy rules and requests. We will also do a quick call with each site so there are no surprises when we arrive on the video/photo day.
Provide Value

Time is valuable. Ensure your audience gains something valuable from your video or photo, like expert tips or explanations of complex issues. While nearly everyone has a camera in their pocket, skilled professionals can make your organization look its best because they:
Lake Stevens School District 2025 Bond Video
Find Your Star

The most effective storyteller may be different from the spokesperson of your organization and may vary depending on content. Your audience needs to connect with an emotion and that may best be accomplished through someone on the ground level or a direct beneficiary of the services you are highlighting or providing. Show them engaging with your organization and let them tell their story. 
Make a Connection

Real people and real-life examples help your audience connect to your cause.
Call to Action

Make sure your audience leaves knowing what to do next! Without a proper call to action, your audience won’t provide you with the results you’re looking for. Make it clear to viewers how you want them to engage or what you want them to do next with easy access to links or actions.
We’d be Honored to Help You

With more than 30 years in education communications we’d love to bring your story to life. Contact EdTeam@strategies360.com to partner with us.

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]]> Key Insights to Promote Student Enrollment https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/key-insights-to-promote-student-enrollment/ Thu, 03 Apr 2025 16:28:42 +0000 https://www.strategies360.com/?post_type=blogs&p=8624 As schools and districts face the ongoing challenge of maintaining and increasing student enrollment, we did a media landscape scan to learn from success stories and strategies to help you achieve your enrollment goals. Key Insights In the past year, Washington media coverage on student enrollment highlighted several themes: Community and parental involvement in school activities is … Continued

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As schools and districts face the ongoing challenge of maintaining and increasing student enrollment, we did a media landscape scan to learn from success stories and strategies to help you achieve your enrollment goals.

Key Insights
In the past year, Washington media coverage on student enrollment highlighted several themes:

  • Community and parental involvement in school activities is critical to the enrollment decision-making process.
  • Specialized programs such as STEM, arts, music, and vocational training, along with partnerships with local businesses and universities, provide unique learning opportunities. Many families may not be aware of these offerings.
  • More schools are engaging in year-round marketing efforts to attract families.

Steps to Increase Enrollment 
Some strategies to consider incorporating into your enrollment outreach efforts:

  • Host regular community events, open houses, and parent-teacher meetings to foster a strong connection with the community.
  • Involve parents and caretakers in school activities and decision-making processes.
  • Make the enrollment process as transparent and accessible as possible.
  • Share stories about programs such as STEM, arts, music, and vocational training to attract and retain students.
  • Highlight partnerships with local businesses and universities that offer unique learning opportunities and real-world experiences for students.
Do you need help developing or implementing an enrollment strategy? 

At Strategies 360, we specialize in developing comprehensive strategies tailored to your needs. We help schools and districts:

  • Implement community engagement initiatives to build strong relationships with parents and local stakeholders.
  • Promote their programs to highlight unique offerings like CTE courses and opportunities for young learners.
  • Communicate and inform their community about funding measures to improve school infrastructure and support services.

Let’s work together! Please reply to this email to discuss how we can support your efforts or email us at edteam@strategies360.com.

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]]> The Education Pulse of Washington https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/the-education-pulse-of-washington/ Fri, 22 Nov 2024 17:42:47 +0000 https://www.strategies360.com/?post_type=blogs&p=8507 For the fifth year, Strategies 360 has supported KOMO News to conduct public opinion research for an in-depth look at issues that matter most to Washington voters. This research includes five years of local and statewide perception of education and policy findings from the Pulse of Washington statewide surveys. Our long-standing research includes insights into … Continued

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]]> For the fifth year, Strategies 360 has supported KOMO News to conduct public opinion research for an in-depth look at issues that matter most to Washington voters. This research includes five years of local and statewide perception of education and policy findings from the Pulse of Washington statewide surveys.

Our long-standing research includes insights into critical issues affecting public education, including Washingtonians’ satisfaction levels with public education, opinions on public safety, and pressing issues voters wish to see prioritized by state officials. This data will offer valuable context for navigating the priorities of education stakeholders.

See the Pulse of Washington survey results, including The Education Pulse of Washington, at https://www.strategies360.com/komopoll/.

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]]> Increase Enrollment with Targeted Communication and Digital Media Strategies https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/increase-enrollment/ Thu, 21 Nov 2024 20:54:03 +0000 https://www.strategies360.com/?post_type=blogs&p=8503 Reach more families, showcase your school’s strengths, and grow your community.  The Strategies 360 Education team will help you boost enrollment through customized campaigns and strategic outreach, offering proven, budget-friendly solutions tailored to your goals.  Our Results  After launching a digital campaign, one school district saw a sharp spike in kindergarten enrollment, far outpacing historical … Continued

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]]> Reach more families, showcase your school’s strengths, and grow your community. 

The Strategies 360 Education team will help you boost enrollment through customized campaigns and strategic outreach, offering proven, budget-friendly solutions tailored to your goals. 

Our Results 

  • After launching a digital campaign, one school district saw a sharp spike in kindergarten enrollment, far outpacing historical trends. The campaign resulted in 333,149 impressions and 7,957 website visits and raised early awareness, drove enrollment and gave schools data for better planning.
  • We partnered with a district to implement a targeted enrollment ad campaign, achieving 100,192 impressions and driving 3,103 clicks to their website. The client was highly satisfied with the results and praised the campaign’s effectiveness in increasing engagement and visibility for their enrollment efforts.
  • Increased enrollment in a high school manufacturing curriculum by 500 students in one year.

Our Services 

At Strategies 360 we pride ourselves on offering a variety of services to meet the exact needs of our client. Below are three options of different campaigns that we can launch to assist your district with enrollment. They range from a basic, medium, to all-inclusive level. We are committed to creating a package that is both affordable and supportive of the district’s goals. 

 Our Services Benefit Your School Community by: 

  • Increased Visibility: Reach prospective families that are not aware of your offerings. 
  • Personalized Messaging: Tailored content to address the needs and values of local families. 
  • Showcase Your Values: Emphasize your commitment to student success, diversity, and community. 
  • Build Community Trust: Engage families with transparent communication, creating a strong sense of belonging. 

Interested in growing your school’s community? Contact us today to start reaching more families! 

Contact Info: 

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]]> Key Strategies and Tips from the S360 Education and Digital Marketing Webinar https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/key-strategies-and-tips-from-the-s360-education-and-digital-marketing-webinar/ Tue, 20 Aug 2024 16:43:32 +0000 https://www.strategies360.com/?post_type=blogs&p=8411 In our previous webinar, the Strategies 360 Education and Research team shared research trends and tips on telling your story to your audience. The Digital Media webinar built on that information, sharing how to reach your audience where they are. Below is an overview of digital marketing in education, including the tools available to school … Continued

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In our previous webinar, the Strategies 360 Education and Research team shared research trends and tips on telling your story to your audience. The Digital Media webinar built on that information, sharing how to reach your audience where they are.

Below is an overview of digital marketing in education, including the tools available to school districts and nonprofits. We also share three tips on utilizing digital media to reach your community.

 The Benefits of Education Marketing 

  • Target specific demographics, behaviors, geographic areas and interests and create awareness and drive participation in educational programs. 
  • Digital media ads are cost-effective and are a data-driven way to measure ROI and campaign performance. 

Types of Ads  

  • Search Ads: Appear on search engines when users search for relevant keywords. 
  • Display Ads: Visual ads displayed on websites within ad networks like Google Display. 
  • Social Media Ads: Ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, NextDoor, TikTok, and LinkedIn. 
  • Video Ads: Ads that play before, during, or after online videos, often used on YouTube. 
  • Native Ads: Ads that blend with platform content, such as sponsored articles or in-feed ads. 

 

Top 3 Digital Marketing Trends  

  1. Content Marketing & Storytelling – Start a blog to address common questions, share tips, and highlight success stories of students and teachers. 

Tips: 

  • Consistency is key. 
  • Use a mix of text, images, and videos to maximize engagement. 
  • Optimize your content for search engines to increase reach and visibility. 

 Leveraging Social Media and Building Community 

Run targeted campaigns on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn to highlight campus life, student achievements, and academic programs. You can also create and nurture online communities through Facebook Groups or forums. 

Tips: 

  • Interact with your audience through comments, likes, and shares.  
  • Encourage your audience to share their stories and experiences. This provides content and builds authenticity. 

Data-Driven Decision Making
Use analytics tools to gather insights and tailor your strategy based on audience behavior. Using data ensures messages are relevant and compelling. Email marketing platforms and marketing automation tools help deliver personalized content. 

Tips 

  • Set Clear KPIs (key performance indicators) to measure success and make data-driven adjustments. 
  • Use A/B testing to experiment with content, messaging, and formats. Optimize based on the results. 

Review the full presentation here.

Want to know more about your community or build a digital and communications strategy? Let’s talk. Email us at edteam@strategies360.com 

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]]> Want to expand your community reach? https://www.strategies360.com/blogs/want-to-expand-your-community-reach/ Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:56:40 +0000 https://www.strategies360.com/?post_type=blogs&p=8378 Join our webinar on Wednesday, August 14, with Strategies 360’s Digital Media and Education teams.  Learn:  Three trends you’ll want to take advantage of that will boost your digital presence  How to utilize digital media ads to expand your reach in your community  How digital media can help you refine your messages and reach targeted … Continued

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Join our webinar on Wednesday, August 14, with Strategies 360’s Digital Media and Education teams.

 Learn: 

  • Three trends you’ll want to take advantage of that will boost your digital presence 
  • How to utilize digital media ads to expand your reach in your community 
  • How digital media can help you refine your messages and reach targeted audiences 

RSVP today!

WEBINAR DETAILS: 

When: August 14 at 12-12:30 p.m. PST 

Where: Zoom. Our team will send out a calendar invite to the emails listed in the RSVP with a Zoom link on August 13.

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