Welcome to another episode of School PR Drive Time, a podcast produced by NCSPRA. Today’s episode will continue exploring crisis communications and response to an emergency event at a school. Since we know a crisis can strike in many ways, we want to tackle the topic from a couple of perspectives. In part one, which I will link below, we explored crisis communications and response from a law enforcement perspective. In this episode, we want to dive into a crisis such as a natural disaster or fire emergency.
Joining me today are representatives from Buncombe County and Asheville City Fire.
Kelley Klope is the PIO for the Asheville Fire Department.
Angie Ledford is the Division Manager for Buncombe County Emergency Management.
Kelley Klope joined the Asheville Fire Department in 1996 as an online firefighter. After serving online for almost six years she advanced to the role of the Fire and Life Safety Educator and Level II Inspector. Soon after taking on this position, it was recognized that AFD should appoint a Public Information Officer to assist with disseminating both internal and external information. Kelley has now served as the Public Information Officer for AFD for almost 20 years. Kelley not only serves as the department’s PIO, but also provides administrative and organizational support to the Fire Chief and his staff. She serves as liaison with other employees and outside entities, coordinating and managing work activities and events. She often represents the Fire Chief at meetings with the general public, local media, organizations, and others. Kelley acts as spokesperson for the Fire Chief and/or department and also manages the fire department’s website and social media platforms.
Angie Ledford began her career with Buncombe County Emergency Services in 2000. She currently serves as the Emergency Management Division Manager. Angie holds Incident Management credentials as Plans Section Chief, Finance Section Chief, Liaison Officer and Public Information Officer. She has assisted many agencies, including Buncombe County and Asheville City Schools, with emergency response planning as well as drills and exercises.
This episode is brought to you by Peachjar.
Did you know that students spend an average of 13% of their waking hours in school by the time they’re 18? This leaves parents facing the question of how to fill the remaining 87%. Together with parents and communities, schools share in the joint mission to enrich the lives of children in and outside the classroom, but you can’t do it alone. That’s where Peachjar comes in. With Peachjar, your school can provide more resources, increase engagement with busy parents, and streamline communications so that you can spend more time focusing on celebrating student success. Trusted by over 17,000+ schools in 850+ school districts, 34,000+ community organizations, and over 12 million parents nationwide, Peachjar delivers resources that help communities thrive. Book a demo at booking.ebsta.com/tabassumb today to learn how partnering with Peachjar can help you streamline your communications process and better connect with your community.
Music: "Hip Jazz," www.bensound.com, all other content © 2021, NCSPRA
