The 'Key' to Information in Our School District

When it comes to school information, South Colonie’s Key Communicators are the first ones to call.

In today’s hectic world it is often difficult to keep up with everything that’s happening in your schools. So, who are you going to call?

Why not try one of South Colonie’s Key Communicators? This network of people is “in the know” when it comes to school information and is faster than a speeding grapevine and more accurate than a runaway rumor.

“Never has there been a more effective group to help our district disseminate accurate information about our schools in a timely manner,” said South Colonie Superintendent Jonathan Buhner. “Communications is so important to everything we do here. We’d be lost without this vital group of individuals from our community.”

South Colonie has had a Key Communicators network in service for years but many people still don’t know about it. Key Communicators are residents who have a strong interest in our schools and who have volunteered their time to act as a liaison between the school district and the public. With a direct link to school officials, these people are more than willing to share information about the district with their friends, neighbors and anyone else whom they might interact with during the course of a day.

The Key Communicator Program also helps residents voice their concerns without having to present them in a formal setting and it helps the superintendent keep in touch with the needs of the community and address rumors before they become problems.

If someone has a question, concern or an idea, the Key Communicator has direct access to school officials by phone or email. There are also times when Key Communicators are asked to give advice and insights on issues facing the school district and having your feedback helps guide them in presenting opinions.

“Key Communicators, since they ARE the community, are a valuable asset to South Colonie administrators, teachers, staff and the Board of Education members,” Buhner added. “Their input, because it comes from you, helps guide us in our decision making and mold the direction our schools take as they continue to strive for excellence.”

Residents are encouraged to call Key Communicators if they have a question or concern about the district. A list of names and phone numbers is is available by contacting the District  Office. And if you’d like to become a Key Communicator please contact the South Colonie District Office at 869-3576. Your input is important to us.

What is the Key Communicator program all about?

The Key Communicators program is essentially a network of people who are well connected to both the schools and the community. The idea is to promote a continuing two-way exchange between Key Communicators and the schools.

Why do we need Key Communicators in our district?

Developing one-on-one relationships is an effective means of communicating within the community. Key Communicators are there to help people know more about the school district and help the school district know more about what people think, feel and know. To gather this information, some people are just more comfortable talking to a friend or neighbor — the Key Communicator — than someone who works directly in the district.

How does the Key Communicators network work?

Each Key Communicator is routinely kept informed of important school issues through periodic meetings, the district web site and phone and/or email messages from the South Colonie administration. Throughout the normal course of a day — soccer practice, band rehearsals or while chatting in the supermarket — Key Communicators are asked to share the information and then make the district aware of questions or concerns.

Who can be a Key Communicator?

Parents, community members, school district employees and students can all sign up. To be a Key Communicator you must meet two simple criteria: you must be a district resident and you must want to become an active communications component for the South Colonie School District. It’s that easy.

If I decide to participate, how long will I be a Key Communicator?

As long as YOU wish. You choose when to subscribe and when to unsubscribe.

What steps must I take to become a Key Communicator in the district?

It’s very easy. Simply contact the District Office — 869-3576 —and we will take down your information and answer your questions.