Barnstable Public Schools

Strategic Communications and Reputation Management

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OVERVIEW

In July 2025, Pierce-Coté / Regan Communications was retained by Barnstable Public Schools to strengthen public awareness of the district’s educational programs, student achievements, and organizational accomplishments.

At the time of engagement, the district was experiencing sustained negative media attention that was overshadowing significant successes across its schools. District leadership sought a strategic communications partner capable of increasing positive visibility and helping to ensure a more balanced public understanding of the district’s performance and contributions to the community.

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CHALLENGE

Although Barnstable Public Schools offered innovative academic programs, strong student outcomes, and a wide range of educational opportunities, these accomplishments were receiving limited public attention.

The district also faced challenges related to media relations, as previous coverage had contributed to a reluctance among some administrators, educators, and stakeholders to proactively engage with reporters and news organizations.

Pierce-Coté / Regan Communications was tasked with developing a communications strategy that would highlight the district’s strengths, improve stakeholder confidence, and create a sustainable framework for positive media engagement.

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STRATEGY AND EXECUTION

Pierce-Coté / Regan Communications implemented a proactive communications and media relations program focused on identifying and promoting compelling stories throughout the district.

The engagement began with a series of planning sessions involving district leadership, department heads, and school administrators. Through these discussions, Pierce-Coté / Regan Communications identified numerous opportunities to showcase the district’s achievements, including:

  • Career and technical education pathways.
  • Advanced academic and college-preparatory coursework.
  • Special education programs and student support services.
  • Student achievements and recognition programs.
  • Athletic accomplishments and extracurricular success.
  • Faculty and staff excellence.

 

In addition to developing and executing a comprehensive earned-media strategy, Pierce-Coté / Regan Communications provided media relations and crisis communications training for district leadership and members of the Barnstable School Committee to strengthen preparedness and confidence in public-facing situations.

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RESULTS

Within the first year of engagement, Barnstable Public Schools experienced a significant increase in positive media coverage and public awareness of district programs and accomplishments.

Key outcomes included:

  • Increased visibility of educational programs and student success stories.
  • Expanded positive media coverage across local and regional outlets.
  • Enhanced organizational readiness for media inquiries and issue management.
  • Successful communications support during several community and operational challenges.
  • Improved stakeholder confidence in proactive media engagement.

 

The engagement also contributed to a cultural shift within Barnstable Public Schools, with district leadership, staff, and stakeholders increasingly recognizing communications and media relations as valuable tools for highlighting student achievement and school excellence.

As a result of the progress achieved through the partnership, Barnstable Public Schools renewed its communications services agreement with Pierce-Coté / Regan Communications for an additional year.

Media coverage

Barnstable Public Schools in the press

11 placements  ·  7 outlets  ·  2025–2026

Broadcast & video

Radio & podcast

Print & photo