City of Fairfax Schools Communications Internships

^{Please note, applications due October 8, 2021.}

^{The City of Fairfax Schools seeks a dynamic, self-starter to assist marketing and communications efforts to tell stories about Fairfax HS to the City of Fairfax community. This internship is an excellent opportunity to experience various aspects of marketing while working in a flexible work environment. The Communications Intern will work independently and on a team to fulfill organizational goals and initiatives related to programming and events.}

^{This internship is for current Fairfax HS seniors and juniors. Academy students welcome to apply, but focus will only be on Fairfax HS.}

^{Student must be in good academic standing and attendance with a 2.5 GPA or above. A teacher reference will be required.}
^{Firm grasp of social media tools and platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Access to all three platforms a plus}
^{Interest/Curiosity in a variety of groups and organizations in Fairfax HS to find, write and promote stories about for our website, e-newsletter and other publications.}
^{No previous experience needed. Emphasis on responsibility, enthusiasm, creativity and flexibility.}
^{Desire to learn about the basic principles of public relations, journalism/writing and marketing.}
^{Access to technology including laptop (school issued laptop or personal), cell phone with camera.}
^{Exposure to graphic design websites such as Canva a plus, but not requirement.}
^{Self-starter, time management, creative, with ability to communicate in a professional manner.}

^{Responsibilities:}

^{Assist in planning, writing and managing stories about Fairfax HS. Interview students and teachers.}
^{Create plan to increase awareness of social media platforms within and outside of the school.}
^{Research, pitch and manage stories to local and national publications.}
^{Provide ideas to update City of Fairfax Schools’ social media accounts.}
^{Collaborate with staff on new ideas, directions, and tools for marketing and communications}

^{Start Date}^{: October 2021 – June 2022. Meeting 1x per month for 1 hour before/after school or during Lion Time with teacher permission. Work 3-5 hours per month. Hours, meeting times are flexible with student schedule. Hours can/will increase or decrease depending on student’s homework, college applications, tests, after school schedules or at the student’s request.}

^Compensation^{: $500 honorarium}

^{Sample Monthly Assignments – Interns would perform 1-2 per month and rotate each month.}

^{Write 200-300 word article for City of Fairfax School website about an event/group/team at Fairfax High School.}
^{Create a social media campaign to celebrate national holiday or recognition month.}
^{Interview FHS administrators or teachers for a Q&A profile for e-newsletter.}
^{Take story idea and pitch to local media such as Washington Post, Fairfax Connection, Fairfax Times and local television stations.}
^{Analyze social media data such as likes, shares, and look for trends. Make recommendations for future social media outreach.}
^{Look out for trends in social media and news sites for story ideas that relate to students at Fairfax HS.}
^{Create graphics on design website such as Canva and analyze effectiveness.}
^{Launch a new social media campaign to highlight a school event, team, teacher at FHS}

^{End of the Year Project Ideas: Interns would choose one with Communications Manager.}

^{Create a short video showing day in the life of a FHS student.}
^{Write an article for State of the Schools report magazine, mailed annual newsletter sent to all City of Fairfax residents.}
^{Present suggestions and ideas to the City of Fairfax School Board and staff about a topic of importance to you.}
^{Analyze one social media channel for the year and recommend tips on increasing engagement based on collected data.}

^{Questions? Email Carrie Dorsey, Communications Manager at}

^{Carrie.Dorsey(at)FairfaxVa.gov}

^{How to apply: Fill out application online - https://www.cityoffairfaxschools.org/apps/form/intern}

^{Please note, applications due October 8, 2021.}