Making an IMPACT: September 2025

Published On: September 2nd, 2025

With the new school year in full swing, we’re reflecting on the close of an exciting summer!

In July, our Partner Tom Speaks and Account Lead Kaitlin Witzberger had the privilege of presenting alongside Plain Local Schools’ Public Relations Director Mary Beddell at the National School Public Relations Association’s National Seminar in Washington, D.C. Their session, “Make Your District the First Choice in an Age of Choice: Communication Strategies to Achieve a Competitive Edge,” focused on equipping school districts with innovative strategies to thrive in today’s competitive educational landscape. It was an incredible experience to connect with education leaders and share actionable insights to help districts position themselves as the top choice for families.

In addition to our time in Washington, members of our leadership team traveled to Chicago to collaborate with Barrington 220 School District as they explored the role of Appreciology in creating a culture for authentic learning. Our partner, Phil Herman, returned to present at their Opening Day Convocation and share Appreciology with Barrington 220 staff. This forward-thinking initiative is designed to cultivate a culture for authentic learning and strengthen leadership, and we are excited to continue introducing it to organizations.

We are grateful for the opportunity to work with many dedicated leaders committed to creating positive, impactful environments for their teams. As we look ahead to the fall, we’re excited for more opportunities to make a meaningful difference.

If you are looking for a partner in strategy, communication, and leadership, schedule your free consultation now to discuss how we can support your leadership goals.

WATCH OUR LATEST WEBINAR

Stress + Recovery = Resilience Strategies for Resilient Leadership

Discover actionable strategies to build resilience and lead with strength by mastering the balance between stress and recovery in this insightful webinar with Impact Group Partner Tom Speaks.

READ OUR LATEST BLOG

Strategic Communication in Action: Responding to Legislative Changes with Confidence

Legislative changes can feel like a storm rolling in. You may see the clouds forming, but it is hard to know exactly how they will affect your community until they arrive. The recent Ohio Biennium Budget proposal is just one example of how new laws and funding structures can create uncertainty, especially for government agencies like cities, school districts, and boards of developmental disabilities.

While these changes often come with challenges, they also create opportunities to strengthen trust, build clarity, and demonstrate leadership. The key is communication. With the right strategy in place, you can help your stakeholders understand not just what is changing, but how your organization is responding in a thoughtful and proactive way.

JOIN US FOR

Ensuring Your Strategic Plan is Living and Breathing

Join Impact Group Partner Tom Speaks and Director of Strategic Services Doreen Osmun to explore ways to keep your strategic plan flexible and effective while fostering meaningful collaboration and staying aligned with evolving priorities.

Super Sunday

Check out one of our most popular series!
We compile news regarding public schools about the latest school trends, tips and potential concerns.

Webinar Series

From our Digital Leadership Academy
30-minute monthly webinar providing actionable strategies to improve your personal and professional life.

IGPR Blog

Take a deeper dive into recent topics.
Best practices, tips and latest trends for schools, local governments and boards of developmental disabilities.

Phil Herman
Partner

Your partner in strategic communications, strategic planning & community engagement.

Schedule a 15-minute call or virtual meeting with Phil to learn more about The Impact Group’s services and how we can partner with your organization to improve communications.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Recent Posts

Subscribe