Introducing Brian Leaf | SDB Public Information Officer

Rick McGrath | School District of Beloit News

Introducing Mr. Brian Leaf

Brian began his duties Oct. 12 and has brought with him extensive experience in communications through decades of journalism, volunteerism, public speaking, fundraising and more.

As a journalist, he worked most recently for the Rockford Register Star. Over the years he covered news and information in such areas as business, the environment and City Hall.

Married, with two grown children, Brian also spent six years as a stay-at-home dad. “That was an experience for which I am grateful,” he said.

During that time, he also continued his skills as a freelance writer from home. And he became highly involved as a volunteer for the Severson Dells Nature Center in Winnebago County, becoming president of the board. That led to Brian conducting public speaking engagements and developing fundraising for the center. “I brought in a fundraising system that involved reaching out to those passionate about the center,” he said.

Dr. Johnson & Mr. Leaf

More recently, Brian also decided it was time to make a change in his career and he became highly interested in the position of Information Officer after taking a tour of the district with Superintendent Dr. Thomas Johnson.

“It was the way Dr. Johnson spoke to those at the schools – whether it was a principal or a janitor – he was very respectful,” Brian said. And that was the deciding factor in accepting the job.

Brian also believes: “The school district will provide me with an opportunity to grow and do some new things. I feel education is important for any community and I want to be involved,” he said.

Dr. Johnson is pleased with the new hire as well.

“The School District of Beloit is pleased to hire an individual with his credentials, experience, and passion.  Brian brings so much talent to our organization and we are truly excited for his enthusiasm, technological skills, and overall communication background.  We are very lucky to have him a part of the Beloit community” Dr. Johnson said.

Information & Community Relations

Among Brian’s duties will be distributing information and handling community relations. He will be in communication with the school staff and administration, parents and the media.

“I will be talking to people and exploring what issues are important to them. I also have done public speaking and will be available to talk to groups,” he said.

A strong believer in public education, Brian also says: “I believe in public education but I also believe there is always room for improvement.”

Solutions to issues will come from the administration. “My job will be to communicate those ideas and hopefully motivate people,” he said.

He plans on creating a culture of sharing information with parents that highlights events at the various schools.

“I am setting up an automated form by which teachers can request publicity for their events and more,” he said.

Brian also will be responsible for submitting press releases to the media.
“You have to have a good relationship with the media,” he said.

He also plans on visiting all the schools and getting to know the people involved with the day-to-day operation of the district.
Some of his personal interests include music and exercise. He plays guitar and banjo and sings in his church choir in Rockford, he said. He also teaches spin classes at the YMCA in Rockford.

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