District Issues Statement on "School District Publishing"

ERIE, Pa. (November 9, 2012) -- Several Erie businesses have recently reported receiving telephone and mail advertising solicitation from a company in Texas called "School District Publishing."

The ad solicitation claims that the company is publishing an online "2012-2013 Pennsylvania School Guide" and, by purchasing an ad, Erie businesses will "provide a valuable resource to school districts and educational agencies in Pennsylvania" and that local advertisers will "gain positive exposure as your ad will be seen by key employees, administrators and officials."  Ad pricing ranges from $595 for a 1/16th page ad to $7,500 for a full page ad.

The company indicates that local ads will be placed in a section entitled "Good Luck Erie City School District From Your Friends In Business."

Businesses should be aware that this publication is not endorsed by the Erie School District and district officials first became aware of the ad solicitation from local business owners who inquired about its legitimacy.  The district will not receive any direct or indirect financial benefit from this publication nor has this publication been approved for distribution to any "employees, administrators or officials."

"School District Publishing" dba "Pennsylvania School Guide" does not have the authority or the permission of the Erie School District to solicit donations, or to sell or market products in the name of or on behalf of the district.

The district urges local business owners to use caution if they are solicited by the company.

Additional Resources:
Better Business Bureau Report (Not Accredited | B- Rating | 11 Complaints in 2012)
Sample Advertising Solicitation Letter