MUSD’s new public relations director has big plans for the district

Within four weeks at his new position as the school district’s public relations director, Tom Beckett has created a long list of goals he plans to achieve.

Beckett’s first priority is to maximize the learning environment for the students.

“Everything I do should be about kids and helping teachers,” Beckett said.

Assisting and supporting the recruiting department in retaining current and recruiting new employees is also important to Beckett.

“We have great people working hard to provide a quality educational environment for the community,” Beckett said. “The public relations department needs to support those efforts and increase the exposure of the good things happening at our schools.”

To do that, Beckett said strong communications lines are important, both within the district and to the public. This includes open, honest and balanced information about the district.

Beckett’s last group of goals all concern increasing funding for the district. He is currently working to maximize the Arizona Tax Credit Program (see related story), which he said could bring in a significant amount of money.

Beckett was a teacher for 17 years before moving to Arizona with his wife four years ago. His most recent position was as the director of communications and marketing for the Coolidge School District.

A current resident of Casa Grande, Beckett said he has been impressed with the subdivisions of Maricopa and would not rule out a move here in the future.

When not working, Beckett said he loves to spend time with his wife. He also enjoys running at a slow pace and reading.

Photo by Joyce Hollis

If you have a friend or colleague you would like to see featured as a “Getting to Know,” click here to find out how to submit your information.