Reading School District Welcomes New Communications Director

Kristine Parkes, a longtime communications professional, is the new Reading School District Communications Director. The Reading School District Board of Directors made the appointment official at the regular board meeting on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. Ms. Parkes brings more than 20 years of experience to the position.

“We are thrilled to have Kristine supporting our communication goals,” said Dr. Yamil Sanchez Rivera, Chief Administrative Officer. “Effective and timely communication is a cornerstone of our strategic plan, and with her knowledge and support, we will be able to tell more student stories of success and more effectively engage with families and our community.”

Parkes holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications and a master’s degree in Professional Communication from LaSalle University. She has dedicated her career to inspiring a new generation of professionals by teaching communication and writing as an adjunct professor at area colleges and universities. In addition, she often presents to professionals about public relations, fund development, and nonprofit management issues. 

“I’m so excited to return to work with a public school district and to build relationships with the students, families, staff and community,” said Parkes. “Children are our future, and communications is about people. I look forward to shining a light on the passions, dedication and hard work of staff and students. There is incredible learning happening inside Reading schools.”

Parkes is no stranger to serving her community; she has served on the board of the Association of Fundraising Professionals - Berks Regional Chapter as the vice president of communications and has volunteered with the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania’s Alumnae Committee. She is a past Public Relations Society of America Independent Practitioners Alliance executive committee member and Tri-County Area YWCA board member. She currently serves as the Regent for the Mahanatawny Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

“Reading School District values transparency and communication with all stakeholders,” said Sanchez Rivera. “We have a vibrant community with plenty of passion, and we hope to continue to foster trust and relationships that we’ve built in the past.”

Parkes shares that she hopes to engage students in her storytelling. “Reading students are learning, creating, thinking, leading, doing. I can’t wait to spotlight their successes inside and outside the classroom, share information with families and our community, and partner to ensure our students have every opportunity to reach and exceed their potential.”

Kristine Parkes and her husband, Brian, live in Mohnton with their two-year-old bulldog, Cobra Kai.