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90 Years of NSPRA

90 Years of Progress, Purpose and Pride

For 90 years, the National School Public Relations Association has empowered school communication professionals through leadership, professional development and support. Explore highlights from our proud history and see how our association has evolved over the years.

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A Brief History
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NSPRA Through the Years: An Interactive Timeline

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NSPRA Voices

In 2010, NSPRA members reflected on their memories, honoring the association’s rich history during its 75th anniversary celebration.

Also as part of NSPRA's 75th anniversary celebration in 2010, former NSPRA Presidents Award winners share their stories.

Looking back on decades of connection and learning, association leaders share their memories of the NSPRA National Seminar. (2025)

Association leaders share how the work of school communicators has evolved and shaped the profession over the decades. (2025)

Association leaders share how they got their start in school public relations and how those first steps shaped their path as communicators. (2025)

NSPRA leaders share how innovation has always been central to school communication and continues to guide the profession forward. (2025)

The power of mentorship takes center stage as leaders describe its lasting impact in school communication. (2025)

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A Brief History of NSPRA

1935–1949: Founding Years – Building a New Profession

NSPRA is founded in 1935, recognizing the need for structured communication between schools and their communities.
Early school PR work focuses heavily on print newsletters, parent outreach and building trust during a period of rapid societal change.
Begins affiliating with national education associations and laying the groundwork for professional standards.

1950–1969: Growth, Innovation, and National Recognition

Hosts its first seminar in 1954, beginning the annual national gathering of school PR professionals.
Membership steadily grows as school districts nationwide recognize the value of dedicated communication roles.
Begins formalizing awards and recognitions, encouraging excellence in school communications.

1970–1989: Expanding Professional Standards and Advocacy

Promotes school communication as a strategic management function, not just a support service, in part through the creation of an accreditation in school public relations (ASPR) program.
Launches new publications and professional development opportunities tailored to emerging challenges.
Strengthens relationships with national education groups such as AASA, The School Superintendents Association, and the National School Board Associations, expanding its reach.

1990–2002: Milestones and Modernization

Technology begins reshaping the profession, prompting new training on websites, crisis communication and electronic media.
Becomes one of eight founding member organizations of the Universal Accreditation Program and transitions from granting the ASPR to granting accreditation in public relations (APR).
Strategic partnerships and leadership initiatives prepare NSPRA for a new century.

2003–2019: Leading Through Change and Innovation

Launches the Communication Accountability Project (CAP), emphasizing the connection between communication and student success.
Achieves a mortgage-free headquarters and strengthens financial reserves, despite major economic downturns such as during the Great Recession.
Expands professional development offerings to include webinars.

2020–Present Day: Leading Through Change and Innovation

Navigates the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing to serve as the voice for effective school communication nationwide.
Undergoes an extensive rebranding to reflect its vibrant personality and an updated mission of developing professionals to communicate strategically, build trust and foster positive relationships in support of their school communities.
Membership grows to 2,900 members.
A record-breaking 1,700 school communication professionals, superintendents and education leaders attend the NSPPA 2024 National Seminar in Bellevue, Wash.

Interested in a deeper look? Read NSPRA’s full history, compiled by dedicated NSPRA leaders and historians.

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