One focus of the meeting was the exploration of email marketing as a primary tool for reaching the community. The committee deliberated on the need for a streamlined approach, proposing to limit the frequency of emails to approximately two to five per month to avoid overwhelming recipients. There was a suggestion to empower subcommittees, such as the budget subcommittee, to utilize these tools independently to streamline communication efforts. The committee recognized the importance of selecting an appropriate vendor for the email service, considering options ranging from free accounts to budget-friendly plans costing between $10 to $15 per month. This strategic move aims to alleviate some administrative burdens while ensuring efficient communication.

The committee also acknowledged the need to gather insights from successful local entities, such as the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), to effectively build and manage their email lists. Additionally, they discussed leveraging local publications for wider audience engagement, with the example of the Board of Health’s weekly column in a local paper being cited as a potential model for the school committee. This strategy was proposed to conserve time and resources while maximizing outreach.

In the realm of social media, the committee recognized the current limitations of their presence, noting the minimal number of followers on existing accounts. There was a consensus on the necessity of revamping their social media strategy to engage a wider audience effectively. The committee acknowledged past challenges in establishing a robust social media presence and emphasized the importance of maintaining comprehensive records of policies and procedural aspects to support this renewed effort.

The logistics of distributing meeting recaps were another significant topic of discussion. The committee proposed a review process where the chair and another member would vet instant recaps before dissemination, with a target release date of Monday to ensure the information remains current for constituents. This strategic timing was believed to enhance recall and engagement with the community.

The meeting also touched on procedural aspects, such as appointing a chair for the communication subcommittee. A member volunteered for the position, which was seconded by another. The committee agreed on the importance of establishing a regular meeting schedule, proposing monthly meetings to coincide with the Tuesday before the school committee’s first monthly meeting. This timing was intended to allow for prompt addressing of issues without delays.