Our brains crave learning new information nearly as much as our stomachs need food. We actually have a dopamine response when we receive new, interesting information, much like our brain is triggered when we enjoy a delicious meal, according to research.

As a school professional, that inherent thirst for professional development is a good sign that your brain is ready to learn more. You’re actually hungry to learn something new … Can’t you just hear that rumbling?

But with all the responsibilities of your office throughout the school year, it’s never easy to find a quiet moment to catch up on the latest strategies and best practices that help your school's marketing and communications meet parents’ rising expectations — or eat your lunch, for that matter.

Whether it’s finally getting that PPC ad campaign launched, evaluating your admission strategy, or finding ways to work smarter, not harder, now's the time to change that with some new learning opportunities.

Finalsite’s Learning Center offers some of the best free online courses for school professionals, taught by Finalsite’s experts in school marketing and communications, digital advertising, admission strategies, and web design.

We know you’re busy, so these learn-at-your-own-pace courses are perfect for school professionals with schedules that never stop. Each course comes with free resources, slide decks, and additional reading so you can meet those new goals for your school.

Here are our top picks for free courses that will jumpstart your learning.

1. Marketing 101 for School Districts

Launching February 21

School choice is expanding, political divides are deepening, and budget cuts are common — the traditional approach to public school enrollment and communications is not nearly as effective. Simply put, districts need to market themselves.

Whether you're new to digital marketing or looking to enhance your existing skills, this free, on-demand course offers districts a path to transform their digital marketing presence. Save your FREE seat!

Expect to learn:

    •    The latest trends in school choice and how to navigate the complexities of school district marketing.
    •    How to tailor your marketing efforts to the needs and challenges of districts, ensuring you reach and engage your families effectively.

We’re excited to add this new course to our Learning Center — register now, and you’ll get access to the course materials, resources, and so much more on February 21.

Total learning time: With five lessons and multiple videos, this course will clock in at just over an hour.

2. Leap and Learn: Enrollment Strategies for Admissions Professionals 

Join us live on Thursday, February 29, 2024

Attention admission and enrollment pros! Dynamic sessions and an expert panel discussion are all focused on leaving you refreshed and ready to take on what matters most to you at your school — like fighting summer melt, getting accepted students to enroll, and making the most of your data.

What to Expect
    •    Expert-led sessions: Our agenda is packed with practical strategies and insights that you can immediately apply to your role.
 
    • Panel Discussion: Engage with our panel of seasoned professionals who will address current challenges and emerging trends and provide answers to your burning questions.
 
    •    Networking Opportunities: Learn with your fellow admissions and enrollment peers! Our virtual platform will give you the opportunity to connect and share experiences.
 
    •    Actionable Insights: Leave with a refreshed perspective to tackle the upcoming enrollment season with confidence and creativity.

Total learning time: Join us for an extra day to learn, 12 – 3:35 PM EST

3. Generative AI in K12 Education

AI is moving at the speed of light, and Finalsite and NSPRA have prepared a comprehensive three-part, on-demand webinar series that explores the use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in K12 education. 

In partnership with AASA, The School Superintendents Association, and CoSN, The Consortium for School Networking, learn more about the important policies and ethical considerations that cover the potential of AI and its impact on school district communications — perfect for superintendents, IT professionals, and school PR leaders. Sign up for the course today!

Expect to learn:
    •    Strategies for developing policies and communicating about AI within your educational community.
    •    How AI tools can simplify your communication and engagement efforts and go deeper into the ethical considerations that underpin AI in education.
    •    Discover practical insights into staff and student use of AI in educational practices. 

Total learning time: Three sessions are about 45 mins each.

4. Social Media for Schools: From AI to Gen Z and Everything in Between

From leveraging the power of AI to creating new solutions to engage Gen Z, your school needs social media to connect with audiences, old and new. Stay ahead of the curve by learning how to effectively adopt and integrate new social media platforms into your school's marketing and communication strategy. Register and get started.

Dive into the world of video and learn the secrets to creating engaging, educational, and entertaining content that resonates with your target audience.

We'll explore: 
    •    How to create the content your audience actually wants to see
    •    Adopting new strategies & platforms to engage your followers
    •    Unlocking the power of AI with time-saving tips

Total learning time: Seven lessons cover everything you’ll need to know in a little over an hour.

5. Creating a Foundation for Your School Marketing Plan

Within an increasingly competitive field, it’s more important than ever to implement a formal, integrated marketing plan for your school. Learn what it takes to attract, engage, nurture, and convert new families (and retain current ones!) Register for the course today!

Expect to learn:

• How to set marketing goals & understanding your families
• How to map the family journey and create content
• How to plan your marketing initiatives and prepare for success

Total learning time: There’s a lot to cover, but you can expect to breeze through these six lessons in 90 minutes or so.

More reading:

• School Marketing 101: 6 Steps to Build a Basic Marketing Plan
• Content Marketing 101 for Independent Schools

6. SEO & Digital Advertising Fundamentals for Schools

Digital advertising isn’t just for private schools anymore. Families have more options for their children’s education, and boosting your school's online presence and digital advertising is now a “must.”

Consider this: Can prospective and current families find you quickly and easily, especially when they're using a mobile device? Whether you’re competing locally for enrollment, looking to bolster your reputation, or looking to do a better job telling your school or district’s story, digital advertising and inbound marketing should be a component of every school and district’s communications strategy. Access the course here.

Expect to learn:

• How to identify and prioritize the top keywords and search phrases
• How to optimize your on-site content for search engines
• How to improve your online reputation through Google My Business and online reviews
• How to get started with advertising, including setting a budget and finding the right outlet

Total learning time: Grab the popcorn! This course consists of eight videos, coming in at just under two hours.

Key takeaway

Let’s make this the year you refine your admissions goals, improve your school’s marketing program, or finally set aside some time to pick up new SEO and digital advertising strategies. With these free online marketing and communication courses, you can even enjoy your lunch while you listen and learn!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Connor has spent the last decade within the field of marketing and communications, working with independent schools and colleges throughout New England. As Finalsite’s Senior Content Marketing Manager, Connor plans and executes marketing strategies and digital content across the web. A former photojournalist, he has a passion for digital media, storytelling, coffee, and creating content that connects.