BACKGROUND

United by the belief that strong public schools are essential to a thriving city, and bringing together leaders from across Denver, EDUCATE Denver was founded as a civic coalition with a mission to close equity gaps and improve outcomes for ECE-12 students across Denver Public Schools. As the organization grew, EDUCATE Denver needed a clear communications strategy and stronger digital presence to raise awareness, engage the community and amplify education as a citywide priority.

Our SUPPORT

Smart Cookie partnered with EDUCATE Denver to build a strategic communications foundation to get the word about the organization’s mission, not just to those in education but all Denver residents. To do this, the team developed a comprehensive communications strategy and established systems to grow outreach and build engagement. This included establishing a clear voice, tone and visual identity for the organization; launching and managing EDUCATE Denver’s social media platforms; building consistent e-newsletter communications to engage key audiences; and supporting content development and strategy as new initiatives arose. 

To further elevate visibility and credibility, Smart Cookie supported high-profile media moments and community engagement efforts. This included planning and executing an in-person press event featuring city leaders, elected officials and education advocates, as well as helping plan and promote citywide candidate forums during Board of Education elections. They also supported a large in-person event – from logistics to communications to run-of-show – as a platform to host thoughtful conversations about the future of Denver’s schools.

In addition to on-going communications and marketing support, Smart Cookie launched a citywide campaign aimed at encouraging city residents to vote in a Board of Education election. Billboards, bus queens, print ads, a website and social media presence were all part of this integrated approach.