CESA 8 Communications specializes in helping school districts build awareness and understanding around their referendum efforts. A well-crafted referendum communications plan is essential—it ensures clarity, promotes engagement, fosters transparency, and counters misinformation. It’s more than just sharing information; it’s about educating and empowering your community to make informed decisions.

Leading this critical work is Dean Leisgang, a seasoned communications expert who has helped districts secure over $700 million in successful referendums since 2017. Dean’s expertise and dedication ensure your district’s unique story is told in a way that resonates with your community.

Top 5 Statistics that Show the Importance of Video in a Referendum Campaign

• Video increases the likelihood of voter engagement in school referendums by 50%. Video can humanize the message and clearly communicate the need for funding or improvements. (Source: National School Boards Association)

• Video-based campaigns help school districts reach 60% more undecided voters than traditional campaign methods. (Source: National School Public Relations Association)

• 65% of voters in school district referendums say they trust information presented in video more than written materials or other forms of communication. (Source: National School Public Relations Association)

• 80% of voters agree that video is the most effective tool for explaining complex issues like funding and district needs in a referendum campaign. (Source: American Association of School Administrators)

• Video increases retention by 95% compared to text" (Source: Insivia)

Below is a list of our digital services and examples of our impactful work. Choose a single service or combine multiple options to create a comprehensive communications strategy.

"We partnered with Dean and CESA 8 to increase communication after we failed a referendum in April 2024.  Dean was great to work with.  He took the story of our district and made it come to life through video for our community.  There is no doubt in my mind that we passed our referendum in November due to the partnership with CESA 8 and Dean."

Kurt Krizan- Shawano School District Superintendent

"CESA 8 Communications provided exceptional support for our recent referendum campaign.  Dean worked closely with me and involved Marion staff and students in creating compelling messaging, designing an eye-catching and informative video series, and executing a comprehensive communication strategy to connect with our community and secure the necessary support for our district's future."

Troy D. Edwards - Marion School District District Administrator

"The School District of Niagara successfully passed its 2024 fall referendum. Collaborating with Dean Leisgang of CESA 8, the district produced a video that effectively communicated its story, highlighted its achievements, and explained the need for an operational referendum on November 5th. Thank you to Dean and CESA 8 for their support in this effort!"

Nathaniel Burklund - School District of Niagara District Administrator

For more information, contact: