People talk to people... and those people talk to other people. And that's how most school news gets around. Unfortunately, this communication system is sometimes unreliable and usually one-way.

Bits of information filter outward from the schools along informal channels without regard to accuracy or completeness. Rumors form, spread and become difficult to counteract. To provide accurate information in a timely way, Bend-La Pine Schools has established a formal network called "Key Communicators."

The basic concept is quite simple. Key communicators will be contacted via e-mail with information about schools, and whenever there is a need to quickly disseminate information about something that is of particular interest to the community.

They will be asked, as a key communicator, to relay that information to friends, neighbors and co-works as they would normally reach within the course of a day. If someone has a question, concern or an idea, the key communicator has direct access to school officials by phone or e-mail.

There may also be times where key communicators will be asked to give advice and insights on issues facing the school district. The network is very informal. There are no regular meetings, no officers, no assignments. By using e-mail, a key communicator network is a cost effective, efficient way to keep accurate information flowing to the community, and creates an easy-to-use pathway for people like you to touch base with district officials.

Please include your address and phone number so that we can contact you by snail mail if necessary.

For more information, or to become a Key Communicator, contact Julianne Repman at julianne.repman@bend.k12.or.us.