Waltham School District

welcome

Proposal Booklet for Waltham School District

Proposal Snapshot: Your Schools will receive the following complimentary service items from Geskus: ~ 3x5 print for every student, regardless of purchase ~ classroom group/composite for every student, regardless of purchase ~ Staff picture package upon request for every staff member ~ Staff ID card for every staff member ~ Student ID Card for every student member ~ Principal Album of classroom photos ~ SIS image exports for your schools SIS system ~ Visitor/Volunteer/Substitute bages (25 of each) ~ Student & Staff directory books ~ Sticky print photos ~ Our “Scholarship Fund”: Geskus offers unlimited scholarship packages for families in need.

Scholarship packages are awarded at the school’s discretion and are indicated on picture day.

~ Our Family Discount Plan: For families with 3 or more children: Pay full price for the first 2 children’s orders and each additional childs order is FREE!

~ No Questions Asked” retake/refund policy. We believe no customer should be unhappy for any reason. We will do whatever is needed to make things right with limited involvement from the school.

~ Designated school coordinator ~ Top-Rated customer support with our industry leading customer service department

Geskus is also proud to offer your district the following Commission/incentives in addition to the above complimentary service items: ~ Unlimited print credits ~ Custom Vinyl Banner (for each school)

All of the above information can also be found throughout our proposal.

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thank you

for your time and consideration

Deciding which company to partner with for school pictures is not about words, it’s about actions.

We promise to fulfill all the needs of Waltham School District and your community, exceeding expectations of service, value, innovation and quality. We promise to partner with you to create the best product and experience for everyone involved.

Over the next few pages, we invite you to learn more about what sets us apart.

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Dear Waltham School District, We extend our heartfelt appreciation for the privilege of presenting our proposal to continue our relationship as your dedicated school photography partner. It is with immense pride that we represent ourselves as New England's foremost and most relied-upon school photography vendor.

This year marks a significant milestone for us at Geskus Studios & Yearbook Publishing as we celebrate our 20th anniversary. We are profoundly humbled and elated to be recognized as New England's unrivaled #1 school photography team. Currently, we stand in partnership with over 750 schools spanning five states, many of which are situated in your proximate vicinity. Among these esteemed institutions are the Waltham Valor High School, Dual Language Elementary, Whittemore Elementary, Stanley Elementary, and the rest of the Waltham district, as well as over 30 schools in the Boston School District!

Over the past two decades, Geskus Studios & Yearbook Publishing has evolved into the leading school picture company in New England, characterized by our commitment to cultivating enduring relationships and providing unwavering attention to each school's unique needs. Our success is exemplified by our exceptional cadre of account coordinators, who collaborate directly with schools, and our responsive customer service department, ready to assist with a simple phone call. Complementing these efforts is our team of highly skilled and professional photographers, dedicated to ensuring that every picture day is filled with joy and smiles.

At Geskus, our culture revolves around prioritizing the needs and desires of our school partners, their students, and their families. Our primary objective is to deliver unparalleled value, service, and quality within the industry. Recent program enhancements underscore our commitment to evolution and innovation: - Implementation of a rigorous photographer training program to continually refine our processes and techniques.

- Seamless payment options through Apple & Google Pay for an enhanced checkout experience.

- An extensive selection of over 50 background choices, provided at no additional cost.

- An industry-leading family plan, offering families with three or more children complimentary pictures.

- Local production, maintaining prices up to 30% more affordable and ensuring swift turnaround times.

Moreover, customer satisfaction is at the core of our thriving partnership. Whether schools connect with their dedicated account coordinator or parents contact our responsive customer service department, we take pride in our prompt responses. Our statistics reflect our commitment, with a 15-second response time on our phone, and 41% of emails receiving a response within 60 minutes and 99% within 24 hours. At Geskus, we recognize the importance of convenience, with 80% of our customers placing orders through their mobile devices, enjoying a seamless checkout experience that averages just 90 seconds. Notably, our Customer Satisfaction Score (CSAT) stands at an impressive 94%, surpassing the industry average of 74%.

As we celebrate 20 years of service, we are excited about the opportunity to bring our expertise and passion to the Waltham School District. Thank you for the chance to showcase our program. We genuinely hope to nurture and sustain our valued partnership with your school for many years to come.

With utmost respect and appreciation,

Stephen Marino Head of Sales 800-948-1120 x673 Stephen@wearegeskus.com 3

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what matters mo

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safety quality service value teamwork innovation 7

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achieving school safety Before a new team member works their first day with us they have been through a three-step interview process, a multi-state background check, and a review of their social media presence. Once they pass through this rigorous process they join us on our campus for photography and procedure training.

It is impossible for us, in good conscience, to send a new hire out on their own so they partner with one of our seasoned lead photographers. This mentoring process has several quality control attributes linked to it and has proved a great path for us to train our new team members.

Each year we revisit our procedures and make improvements with your student’s best interest at heart.

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quality Quality encompasses so many things when it comes to a school portrait.

We take into account proper posing, capturing the most natural smile, printing on the best paper in the industry, and packaging the end product in a clean, safe manner.

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“All pictures came in today. Great turn around time. You guys ROCK!!”

- Donna Aubin - Auburn Village School

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service Simply put, we will be there when you need us.

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We will maintain an open line of communication, education, and support with our customers and clients. We value being dependable and honest with our school partners and the communities we serve.

- Kathy Venuti, Bradley School

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“I just have to say...you have a great team. This was the easiest, most professional picture day in my 22 years as a school secretary.”

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“ “I am so glad that we made the decision to use your company this year, and for the future, for school photos, yearbooks, etc.

I am beyond impressed with the quality of pictures and the customer service. Change can be scary for people but I knew from the moment I spoke with Stephen Marino that this was the best decision.”

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- Becky Ford, Barnard School

value We create all of our products and services, in our New England production facility. This helps keep our costs low, and we extend those savings to schools and families.

But, it’s more than price. We also believe in giving back to communities whenever we can. We are excited to sponsor school events, donate to local charities, volunteer a helping hand, support meaningful initiatives and offer scholarships to our partners.

Value comes from working with a company that believes in the day-to-day and the greater causes alike.

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teamwork We take teamwork to heart. We work as a team to bring you the best quality, value, and service of any company. As a collection of good people doing good things, we will always go the extra mile to make our customers and clients happy.

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“ - Jeanne Vlahos, Winthrop School 17

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I have been working with Geskus since stepping into my role at Winthrop School 13 years ago. Each year, the Geskus team continues to raise the bar with their professionalism and attention to detail, along with being super responsive if the need arises. We continue to appreciate our valued partnership with Geskus.

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innovation The driving force behind our passion.

We are empowered by the idea of making the school photography and yearbook publishing industry the best that it can be. We find ourselves constantly pushing the boundaries, being courageous, and remaining nimble along the way.

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Every year, we test new products and software. We are always working to improve the way we produce products and services in order to be a better company. Our open and honest partnerships allow us to learn and evolve.

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“I wanted to tell you that we were so impressed with your crew. They helped to make sure that everything ran smoothly. Most of all, they were kind, helpful, and easy to work with. Thank you so much!”

- Alison Bryant, Assistant Superintendent of Rochester Schools

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a brighter tomorrow Geskus – Where Philanthropy Meets Purpose.

At Geskus, we believe in the power of community, the strength of education, and the limitless possibilities that arise when we come together to support one another. Our commitment goes beyond providing exceptional services; it extends to enriching the lives of those around us. Introducing Geskus’ Philanthropic Program – a heartfelt initiative that defines our purpose and amplifies our mission to contribute meaningfully to society.

Education is the cornerstone of progress, and Geskus is passionate about cultivating an environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. Our philanthropic endeavors are deeply rooted in supporting educational institutions with resources that make a lasting impact.

Additionally, through our philanthropic program, we support schools in organizing events that celebrate diversity, encourage creativity, and build a lasting sense of community.

Geskus is not just a company; we’re your partners in community building.

Collaborate with us to identify areas where we can make a meaningful difference—whether through financial support, volunteering, or other forms of assistance, we’re here to listen, understand, and act. Join hands with Geskus, and together, we make a difference. Let’s chat and embark on a journey of collaboration and positive change.

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Recently we made the switch to Geskus and we are thrilled! The pictures were high quality and the staff was professional and efficient. We were awarded the 2023 National Blue Ribbon Award and Geskus honored us with a beautiful school banner that we have hung proudly at our school entrance. Geskus has given us a level of customer service and care that is much appreciated!

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- Michelle Pitts - Rye Elementary School

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yearbooks We know that yearbook designing and sales shouldn’t be something you have to stress over. The process should be fun and easy.

We proudly partner with TreeRing for a yearbook solution that is sustainable and user-friendly. There is no minimum order, every order ships free, and a tree is planted for every book sold. Plus, their software is quick and easy to use, and support is always just a phone call away!

For more information visit us at: www.wearegeskus.com/yearbooks.

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W E N CUSTOM PACKAGE Visit us online to build your own CUSTOM package!

school day pricing Even with the changing economy and inflation all around us, we are proud to say our pricing continues to be the most affordable in the industry and nearly 30% less expensive than some of our closest competitors. We don’t have surprise up-charges for backgrounds or hidden shipping fees. To put it simply, we keep our costs low by producing everything locally, in our New England production facility. We extend our savings directly to our customers.

Featured

starting at Our premium digital download, starting at just $9! It comes with a full copyright release, giving you complete ownership and the freedom to use it as you wish. It’s a customer favorite!

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$9

Deluxe

$52 3 - 8x10s

4 - 5x7s

2 - 3x5s

4 - wallets

ORDER ONLINE & GET THESE INCLUDED FOR FREE

Digital Download 1- Magnet

$28 1 - 8x10

2 - 5x7s

3 - 4x6s

4 - 3x5s

ORDER ONLINE & GET THESE INCLUDED FOR FREE

1 - Academic Calendar 1- Magnet

$15

Value

Most Popular

1- Academic Calendar

3 - 5x7s

2 - 3x5s

8 - wallets

Basic

$12

A la carte

1 - 4x6

2 - 3x5s

4 - wallets

4 - minis starting as low as

OR

OR

$9

.99

OR

per sheet

1 - 8x10

2 - 5x7s

3 - 4x6s

8 - wallets

Many more package options available to families online & on flyer *Pre-order pricing is displayed. Prices subject to increase after the ordering period ends.

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Senior Portraits Geskus will coordinate with Waltham High School’s yearbook advisor to receive data (Including parent email addresses). Geskus will then create informative emails that will go out to all seniors and their parents for information and scheduling purposes.

All senior portrait dates and times will be agreed upon between Geskus and the Waltham High School’s yearbook advisor. Geskus offers flexible scheduling options to meet the needs of your school. Photography sessions will be available both during and after school hours, Including weekends if desired.

Portrait sessions may be scheduled at any of our outdoor senior portrait locations.

Although schools are not required to contract, contracting allows us to allocate more resources to a specific area because we are guaranteed students will sign up. When contracted, we photograph every senior, and they are required to use Geskus for their Senior Portrait. This allows us to offer a few free sessions days at the school that allow seniors a more flexible and easy option extremely close to home.

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Geskus is happy to offer 3 tiers of senior portrait options:

Basic - $59

Outdoors - Approx. 10 minutes includes 1 digital download includes yearbook selection photo

Standard - $159

Outdoors - Approx. 20 minutes includes 4 digital download includes yearbook selection photo

Premium - $229

Outdoors - Approx. 30 minutes includes 9 digital download includes yearbook selection photo

Elite - $329

Outdoors - Approx. 45 minutes includes 15 digital download includes yearbook selection photo Some Available Add-Ons Purchase all Digitals: $200 ($300 after Session) Add a Clothing Change: $9.99 (Adds 10 Minutes to your Session) Family Portrait Session: $159 (Adds 20 Minutes to your Session) * Please note that packages include digital downloads which are a $35 value per image and includes printing rights.

Following the student’s senior portrait session, families will be given access to their private online digital gallery of their portrait session. All communication will be done through email, including the confirmation of yearbook pose selection and purchase options.

Geskus will also provide scheduled updates of students photographed, not photographed and yearbook pose selection status. Lexington High School will need to provide a class list containing student names, parent emails and mailing addresses. Geskus always protects student data. We always follow the State’s Parent Data Privacy Laws.

Senior Images will be sent to the yearbook department via secure link. This link will include yearbook ready images and will be named according to your schools specs.

Geskus’s senior portrait program is built around you. We allow you to be as hands off as you want with the confidence that our team will deliver high quality portraits on your timeline.

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the fine deta

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ails:

references pricing support terms incentives 29

references 98%

98% of our schools rate us 5 out of 5 for picture day experience and overall quality & service.

John F. Kennedy Middle School

McDevitt Middle School

FitzGerald Elementary School

Douglas MacArthur Elementary School

Northeast Elementary School

Plympton Elementary School

Whittemore Elementary School

Dual Language Elementary School

655 Lexington Street Waltham, MA 02452 Paula Oliveri, Picture Day Contact paulaoliveri@walthampublicschools.org 781-314-5560 138 Beal Road Waltham, MA 02452 Amanda Grimes, Picture Day Contact amandagrimes@walthampublicschools.org 781-314-5680 70 Putney Lane Waltham, MA 02452 Kristen Marriott, Picture Day Contact kristenmarriott@walthampublicschools.org 781-314-5740 30 Parmenter Road Waltham, MA 02452 Carol Rodriguez, Picture Day Contact carolrodriguez@walthampublicschools.org 781-314-5780 x5782

75 Church Street Waltham, MA 02452 Eileen Redfern, Picture Day Contact eileenredfern@walthampublicschools.org 781-314-5592 494 Lincoln Street Waltham, MA 02452 Peggy Santana, Picture Day Contact margaretsantana@walthampublicschools.org 781-314-5720 20 Farnsworth Street Waltham, MA 02452 Meghan Conneely, Picture Day Contact meghanconneely@walthampublicschools.org 781-314-5760

617 Lexington Street Waltham, MA 02452 Anne Marie Reynolds, Picture Day Contact annemariereynolds@walthampublicschools.org 781-314-5701

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terms & Responsibilities Geskus assumes the responsibility of providing proper notification for picture day. This includes posters to hang throughout the school, take-home postcards announcing the portrait dates and instructions, as well as electronic picture day and retake day notices to be provided to the school for use on the school website, newsletter and email blast.

Geskus will provide envelope order-forms to the school offices as needed.

Every student and staff member will be photographed on picture day, even if no package is purchased. A complimentary ID will be provided for each student and staff member photographed. Replacement IDs can be requested at any time and there will be no charge for ID reprints.

Geskus will handle all customer/parent calls and address any questions or concerns of all involved. Geskus will handle all processing of payments, including insufficient funds.

At Geskus we believe no customer should be unhappy for any reason. We offer a 100% money back guarantee and a ‘no questions asked’ retake/refund policy. We will work directly with the families involved with limited involvement from the school.

The schools will provide student and staff data to Geskus upon request, approximately two weeks before picture day. Data will be formatted in an excel file inclusive of student name, student ID number, teacher or team name, grade and any other pertinent information.

The schools will provide ample space for photographers to set up on picture day.

Additionally, the schools will provide a picture day schedule, and manage the flow of students to and from the photography location.

Geskus will mail home ALL picture packages within 3 to 4 weeks of picture day. All retake pictures will be delivered to the school for distribution. Geskus will sort all service items as requested by the schools and the schools will distribute these items upon their arrival.

Timelines Administrations from each school will select a picture date and retake date of their choice and work directly with their appointed Geskus Account Coordinator to secure available dates. Geskus has the fastest turnaround time in the industry - picture packages will be returned to the school within 4 weeks of picture day or retake day, respectively. All school services, including full IDs, directories, sticky pictures etc, will be returned to the school within 4 weeks of picture day or retake day, respectively.

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conditions Event / Candid / Club Pictures Upon request, Geskus can provide group, candid, and club pictures as needed for each school. From September 1st through December 1st and From April 1st through June 15th, we request a 3-week notification before any given event so we may properly coordinate. Upon request, Geskus can also provide coverage for Prom.

Senior Class Pictures / Senior Portraits / Graduation Photos Senior class photos are always complimentary. We can take any type of photos from rooftop panoramas to cap and gown photos in the bleachers. Every senior receives a complimentary print upon request.

Senior portrait services are available at any of Geskus’ portrait studios as well as our pop-up on-location sites. We always have a studio available in our Seabrook, NH location and other studio spaces rotate yearly. Marketing for senior portraits can be provided to the high school upon request and yearbook pose selection is always complimentary.

Geskus can provide coverage for commencement for the high school each year, if requested by the school.

Additional Services We believe you should love your school photography provider, and we want to be the partner you can rely on for all of your needs. Please ask us for any items you do not see explicitly listed within this document.

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we believe in... complimentary classroom group photos or composites Classroom composites or classroom group photos are always included complimentary. Each student will receive a composite or group photo regardless of whether or not an order is placed.

complimentary background choices We have a wide variety of background choices that change seasonally to keep things exciting. We never charge for background selection - students and staff can have any background they prefer.

“No Child Left Empty Handed” Each student will receive a cover sheet that includes a 3x5 portrait and two safety cards.

affordable digital image options Geskus offers digital image downloads that are accompanied by a copyright release. Images are sent directly to the parent’s email and the transaction takes place securely online.

a wide variety of picture packages We strive to offer a variety of desirable order options. Our packages are designed to appeal to every audience with a multitude of price points. We keep our prices as low as possible to offer the best value to our customers, never sacrificing quality.

low-cost a la carte prints We always offer a la carte options on our order form flyers. This allows customers to place an order for exactly what prints they would like, in any combination they prefer. Nearly 60% of all orders placed are a la carte.

the ease of online ordering We offer a robust and mobile-friendly online ordering option. Parents can pre-order ahead of picture day and up to 72 hours after picture day has ended. They can also revisit us any time after photos have been processed to post-order online.

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a few perks Some things should always be included.

Please see below our list of complimentary service items that we provide to every school partner:

Each staff member will receive a staff picture package, upon request.

Each student and staff member will receive a customized ID (barcoded if needed) Complimentary replacement IDs can be produced at any time.

Customized visitor, volunteer, and substitute badges upon request.

Student directories and sticky pictures are provided to each school, as needed.

5x7 classroom group photos or 8x10 classroom composites (individual school’s choice) will be provided to each student, regardless of whether or not an order is placed.

Staff group photo, upon request.

Our Family Discount Plan: For families with 3 or more children: Pay full price for the first 2 children’s orders and each additional childs order is FREE! Our “Scholarship Fund”: Geskus offers unlimited scholarship packages for families in need.

Scholarship packages are awarded at the school’s discretion and are indicated on picture day.

Geskus has a “no questions asked” retake/refund policy. We believe no customer should be unhappy for any reason. We will do whatever is needed to make things right with limited involvement from the school.

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here for you Our team is comprised of talented, compassionate, and fun individuals. We live and breathe school pictures and community support. We will go the extra mile to make sure our customers and clients are happy. .

Questions? Just ask! No idea is too big, no inquiry too small. We are here for you, for anything you may need.

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Richard Carroll President/CEO Rich is the heart and soul of Geskus. He is a champion of teamwork and morally conscientious decision-making. He motivates the Geskus Team to treat others with fairness and kindness, and he actively supports the school communities that we service. With two children in NH schools, he understands the importance of a school photo and will do anything to make a customer or client smile.

Stephen Marino Head of Sales Stephen is filled with passion and positivity. His positive energy is contagious and brings it with him whenever he goes. He loves meeting new schools, telling them about our company brand and initiatives. Building partnerships that are based on trust and transparency (with a little fun mixed in too) is what Steve enjoys most. When not at work, he spends his time with his wife and three children adventuring in greater New England, and coaching his children’s baseball, softball and basketball teams.

Aimee Arsenault Head of Client Relations Beginning her career in the school picture industry while still in high school, Aimee has worked in nearly every department including photography, customer service and sales. As Head of Client Relations , Aimee works closely with Rich, Steve and the CX team to make sure that every school has an amazing picture day experience. Her knowledge and experience help her to build personal, meaningful relationships with every school that Geskus works with.

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the good stuff

Everyone loves gifts & incentives. We want to be both the best picture day and yearbook publishing provider for your school, as well as the best partner. The gifts below will be awarded for each year of our agreement.

Your Print Partner: Need something printed? Just let us know, we are happy to provide an unlimited print credit to your schools!

Here’s a few ideas: Prom Tickets, Birthday Cards, Student of the Month Certificates, Graduation Certificates, Holiday Cards, Postcards, etc.

Please allow 4 weeks for design and production of all items listed above.

Total Allowance: Unlimited Complimentary Custom Banner: We’re here to help your school advertise! Need a custom school banner? We are happy to provide a banner for each school ($195 value per banner) Here’s a few ideas: Upcoming Book Fair, Back-to-School message, Anti-Bullying message, School banners must be designed 4 weeks prior to need-by-date.

Total Value: $2145

Your Philanthropic Partner: Whether through financial support, volunteering, or other forms of assistance, we’re here to listen, understand, and act. Join hands with Geskus, and together, we make a difference. Let’s chat and embark on a journey of collaboration and positive change.

Refer to page 21 & 22 for more information

Total Value: Lets Collaborate!

Family Plan: We are proud to offer the Waltham School District the best family plan in the industry. For families with 3 or more children: Pay full price for the first two children’s orders and each additional child’s order is FREE!

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the bottom line: Unlimited print credit, $2145 in custom banner design, Philanthropic Collaboration, the best Family Plan in the industry, and the priceless value of a local trusted school photography partner.

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Testimonials

“As always, I repeat myself by saying that I am always in good hands with anyone from Geskus. Thank you so much. You are the bomb diggity!”

- Donna Aubin, Auburn Village School “I have always been impressed by the attention that Geskus has paid to us early on, and their persistence has reflected always positivity!”

- Bill Longergan, Campbell High School

“Even in the midst of a rough few covid years, Geskus has been very flexible in working with and accommidating our needs and the needs of our parents, Thank you!”

- Michael Beachy, Grantham Village School

“Thank you for being so helpful. I really do love Geskus! Everyone is always so helpful and willing to do whatever it takes.”

- Theresa Blades, Ellis School “I just have to say...you have a great team. This was the easiest, most professional picture day in my 22 years as a school secretary.”

- Kathy Venuti, Bradley School “What a wonderful group of photographers you sent us today! Thank you! I think this was one of the best picture days we have ever had!”

- Marla Miller, Merrimack Valley Middle School “Thank you! Your representative was great with the kids and staff. It was a very nice first experience with your company. So far, I am very happy we made the switch from Life Touch.”

- Jeremy Hillger, Sandwich Central School All the photographers were great and we kept each other informed as the morning progressed. Thank you again for your flexibility with sending the 5th camera to us, it worked out great.”

- Susan Piper, Hudson Memorial School “I want to let you know that our experience was very good. The photographers were on time and need little assistance setting up. The whole picture taking process was extremely smooth. Thanks again!”

- Jeanne Tehven, Bristol Elementary School “Thank you very much for your contact and communication. Both you [Renee] and Aimee have been very responsive to any needs we have had and supportive of the school.”

- Brian Beaverstock, Crescent Lake School

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“The team you sent ROCKED IT!! They were so friendly and patient with the students and professional and kind with staff involved in picture day. Much appeciated and the lead communicated effectively and frequently and treated his team very well.”

- Laurie Relinski, Portsmouth High School “Thanks, Renee! We love working with Geskus and you!”

- Joseph Clarke, Franklin Elementary School “Our day went really well here. Andrea was very pleasant, professional, and so nice to work with! We had several staff members mention that she was great with the kids as well as the adults. Please let her know that we appreciated her being calm and friendly, in the midst of elementary picture day shuffle!”

- Julia Allen, KRES at Bradford “Thank you so much! Your team was very professional and we quickly moved through the schedule. All went well at Spofford.”

- Karen Hussey, Spofford Pond School

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“I wanted to tell you that we were so impressed with your crew. They helped to make sure that everything ran smoothly. Most of all, they were kind, helpful, and easy to work with. Thank you so much!”

- Alison Bryant, Assistant Superintendent of Rochester Schools

“I wanted to make sure you are aware of the delightful Geskus team which was sent to us last week! A very successful day, batches of students in and out of the camera sets.

Your photographers are so kind and friendly with the students. Much appreciated.”

- Amy Digby, Doyon School

thank you Thank you again for your time and consideration. We look forward to working with you.

Questions about this proposal booklet?

We’re here to help: stephen@wearegeskus.com (603) 988-9614 43

(800) 948-1120 | wearegeskus.com