Telling the amazing stories found in classrooms across Poudre School District is one of the many things John Cope looks forward to doing as PSD's new Executive Director of Communications.
“I take pride in celebrating the achievements of students, staff, and teachers, and I am passionate about showcasing their efforts and hard work. The impact of this work is meaningful and lasting, and that’s what motivates me each day,” Cope said.
As someone who has spent more than a decade in school district communications, Cope has had many opportunities to highlight the amazing work that goes on in public schools. He started as a web communications coordinator in the Fort Worth Independent School District in Fort Worth, Texas, managing the district’s web presence. The next year, he became FWISD’s web and creative coordinator, leading a team of designers, social media managers and web managers. For the last five years, he has overseen the district’s public relations, marketing, media relations, and online communications as a director of communications.
His experience and strategic approach to communication made Cope stand out as the right person to lead PSD’s Communications team, said Dr. Lauren Hooten, PSD’s chief of staff. His first day as executive director will be Oct. 1.
"John brings a wealth of school district communications experience to our team, having served on and led the communications team with the Fort Worth Independent School District for twelve years. I am excited about the experience in developing strategic communications and creative marketing and public relations campaigns that John will bring to this role as we seek expanded opportunities to connect with our community," Hooten said.
Cope earned both a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s in journalism with an emphasis in media arts from the University of Oklahoma.
He and his wife – a dual-language pre-K and art educator – are excited to move to Colorado with their three children, ages 2, 5, and 7. Together as a family, they like to explore the outdoors and create and enjoy art. Cope also likes to unwind by creating music and has played bass in several indie rock bands.