From Educational Leaders to Confident Public Speakers

CLIENT: Vancouver School Board
PROJECT: Executive Media Training

/ Services Provided

Media Training
Film Production + Photography

/ Communicating When It Mattered Most

During the COVID-19 pandemic, school district leaders found themselves at the centre of one of the most challenging communications environments in recent history. Families, staff and communities relied on timely, accurate information as typical forms and ways of communication changed rapidly.

The Vancouver School Board recognized the need to equip senior administrators with the skills and confidence to communicate effectively to audiences and sometimes, under pressure.

/ Building Confidence Through Practice

A customized media training program was developed to help school district leaders strengthen their messaging, sharpen their interview skills and become more effective communicators.

Through practical interview exercises, on-camera coaching and real-world media scenarios, participants gained hands-on experience responding to challenging questions while staying focused on key messages.

The training was designed not only to improve performance in media interviews, but to help leaders communicate more effectively with the communities they serve.

    / Skills That Extend Beyond the Interview

    More importantly, the training helped strengthen everyday communication skills that extend far beyond media interviews. Participants developed greater confidence presenting to staff, engaging with parents and community members, speaking at public meetings and responding to high-pressure situations where clear, consistent messaging is essential.

    By further developing these capabilities across the organization, the program helped create stronger communicators who could lead with confidence in a wide range of professional settings.

    / A Lasting Partnership

    The success of the training program led to continued engagements with existing and new leaders over multiple years, helping to build long-term interview and public speaking capacity across the organization.

    Today, our relationship with the Vancouver School Board continues through storytelling and video production initiatives, and supporting the district’s commitment to meaningful community engagement.

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    Samantha Haugen

    Account Manager
    Samantha (Sam) Haugen has been with Munro/Thompson since 2021. She began as a summer intern and successfully advanced to a senior account executive, focusing on digital marketing and communications for our tourism, damage prevention, resident attraction, and First Nations clients. Sam studied at Vancouver Island University where she attained a degree in tourism management with a minor in marketing, and a certification in event management. Prior to joining Munro Thompson, Sam worked in tourism, hospitality, communications, and social media marketing. She has worked with Indigenous Tourism BC, her Nation, Huu-ay-aht First Nations, and many other First Nations across BC. Outside of work, you can find Sam outdoors skiing, surfing, snorkeling, or spending quality time with friends and family.
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