See How The Storybrand Framework Clarifies A School's Message Online

Digital Consultants • May 28, 2022

Everyone loves a good story. Stories are powerful. Every memorable story is built on a simple framework: A hero has a problem, meets a guide who gives them a plan and calls them to action. Failure would be devastating but the hero is guided to success. 


That's the plotline of some of the epic stories that have gripped culture for years. What is remarkable is that we can take those principles and the story framework and apply them to marketing. Don Miller, author of "Building a StoryBrand” states, "Story is the most powerful tool in the world to captivate the human brain. When you learn to use story in your brand's communication, your customers will finally pay attention to what you're saying." 



What is StoryBrand messaging?

· A framework to clarify your message

· A framework that has been getting and keeping people's attention for

thousands of years

· A powerful formula to get attention for your products, your services,

or yourself


It is important to understand that you are not telling your story but inviting customers into a story.  The brand is not the hero.  The customer is

the hero. That is the only way to engage them. The brand’s role is to guide them successfully through their challenges.


If you use the StoryBrand Framework, you should answer the following questions in your messaging: 

1.     What do you do?

2.     How does your school make the family’s lives better? 

3.     Why should they send their precious children to your school instead of another school?


Why is the StoryBrand framework so effective?

Every human being wants to be invited into a story.  They want you to offer them a vision of a better life, help them

overcome challenges, act as their guide and take them to a climactic scene in which their story ends happily.  That is why the StoryBrand framework is

so powerful.  It allows your Organization to:

  • Capture your customer’s attention - The best storytellers all know that in this noisy world, attention is key! People have short attention spans and want to know what’s in it for them.
  • Know and connect with your ideal client - Don’t make the mistake of making a lot of noise but missing an opportunity to truly connect with your ideal client.
  • Get clear on the problem you solve - When you can get clear on how you solve problems, you can be sure that people will listen.



The Customer is the Hero, not your Brand

The idea behind StoryBrand marketing is this:  Your parents don’t really care much about what you do - about your company or your history. Telling them a story about you is both ineffective and a waste of their time.  Your story is deeply personal to you, but to others you're just another school, that is going to cost them money to send their children.  Your parents are primarily looking solution for their problem or concerns.  If you show up as the trustworthy Guide, who has a plan to help them solve their problems, and help them along their path to success, now that’s interesting!  Now they care about you and about what you can do to help their children.


Start Messaging Your Content By Answering This Question

Q: Take a look at the homepage of your website- is it about you or the customer? 

A: Your marketing should invite your parents into a story and position you as the guide who will

help them to succeed so they feel like a winner, an overcomer, or a hero.


10 digital marketing trends your school
By Jenani Paul October 21, 2025
Here are 10 digital marketing trends your school can start applying right away — plus a free cheat sheet at the end to make it even easier.
By Jenani Paul September 25, 2025
In today’s digital world, families begin their search for a Christian school online—and 90% of people start their search on Google. If your school isn’t showing up where it counts, parents may never discover the Christ-centered education you offer. That’s why having a strong online presence is essential—not just a website, but a profile that helps your school get found, build credibility, and connect with the families God is sending your way. One of the most powerful tools to achieve this is Google My Business. Google My Business is a free tool that lets your school manage how it appears on Google Search and Maps. It helps parents find your school online by showing your location, contact info, hours, photos, and reviews. A complete and optimized GMB profile increases visibility, builds credibility, and connects your school with families actively searching for Christ-centered education. Why Google My Business (GMB) Matters for Your School Discover how local search visibility can connect you with families seeking Christ-centered education. Increase Visibility in Local Searches Parents searching for “Christian school near me” or “private school in CITY NAME” can find your school at the top of Google search and Google Maps. Showcase Your School’s Mission and Values Your GMB profile allows you to highlight your Christian mission, programs, and unique qualities—helping families connect with your school’s heart. Drive More Website Traffic A complete GMB profile includes a link to your website, driving prospective families directly to your site for more information. Boost Enrollment Opportunities Higher visibility and engagement can lead to more inquiries, tours, and ultimately, more student enrollment. Share Photos and Videos of Your Campus Visual content helps parents see your school environment, staff, and programs—creating trust and credibility. Collect and Display Reviews Positive parent and alumni reviews build your school’s reputation and influence decisions for prospective families. Engage with Your Community GMB allows you to post updates, events, and announcements—keeping current families informed and attracting new ones. Gain Insights on Prospective Families Google provides analytics on how people find your school, what search terms they use, and how they interact with your listing. Stand Out From Competitors Many schools overlook GMB—having an optimized listing gives your school a competitive advantage in local searches. Enhance Trust and Credibility A complete, active, and verified profile signals to parents that your school is professional, transparent, and engaged in the community.
By Jenani Paul September 11, 2025
Seeing Through Parents’ Eyes: Communicating What Truly Matters