School leaders and board members attend a GCSA Communications session.
Effective communication is essential to successful school operations. The Georgia Charter Schools Association’s Communications Department supports charter schools across Georgia by providing timely information, professional development, and guidance—whether schools are sharing good news or navigating obstacles.
Led by Michelle Wirth, Senior Director of Communications, and Shabaaka Smalls, Manager of Digital Strategy, the department provides a variety of resources to member schools. One key offering is the monthly Communications Community of Practice. These sessions help advance Georgia’s charter school movement by equipping communicators and school leaders to share success stories and strengthen communication strategies. Participants gain tools to increase positive awareness, counter misinformation, and build public support for charter schools across the state.
Michelle Wirth, GCSA Senior Director of Communications
In addition to training and support, GCSA partners with an earned media firm to amplify positive stories about Georgia charter schools in the news media—a free service available to member schools. The Communications Department also keeps member schools informed through a weekly newsletter and periodic email blasts, sharing the latest news, resources, and opportunities.
GCSA’s communications team further engages audiences through targeted digital campaigns on social media and works closely with the Policy and Advocacy team on grassroots efforts that empower advocates to connect with state lawmakers on important legislative and policy matters.
Beyond these initiatives, the Communications
Shabaaka Smalls, GCSA Manager of Digital Strategy, and Rahn Mayo, GCSA Vice President of Policy and Advocacy
Department provides crisis management guidance and personalized consulting to help schools address their unique communications and marketing needs.
The department also supports GCSA’s New School Development, School Success, Membership and Events, and Finance departments with their communications and marketing efforts.
Through these comprehensive services and ongoing support, the Georgia Charter Schools Association equips charter schools across the state with the communication tools, strategies, and expertise to thrive and grow.
