Awards Award Winners 2026 Golden Achievement Award Winners

Abington School District (PA), Abington, Pennsylvania
Abington Community Approves Historic Referendum
Submitted by:
Allie Artur, Communications Coordinator, Abington School District (PA)
Jeffrey Fecher, Superintendent, Abington School District
Rita Notarianni, Assistant to the Communications Coordinator, Abington School District

Alexandria City Public Schools (VA), Alexandria, Virginia
A Data-Driven Approach to Enrollment Equity
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Gladis Bourdouane, Assistant Director of Communications, Alexandria City Public Schools (VA)
Krishna Leyva, Assistant Director, Family and Community Engagement, Alexandria City Public Schools
Gerson Paniagua, Assistant Director, Community Partnerships and Engagment, Alexandria City Public Schools
Cindy Centeno, External Communications Support Specialist, Alexandria City Public Schools

Alexandria City Public Schools (VA), Alexandria, Virginia
Making the Unseen Work Seen: The ACPS Heart Work
Submitted by:
Daryl Johnson, Executive Director of Communications, Alexandria City Public Schools (VA)
Julia Burgos, APR, Chief of School & Community Relations, Alexandria City Public Schools
Jasmine Washington-Price, Media Relations & Internal Communications Coordinator, Alexandria City Public Schools
Jordan Mason, Digital Communications Specialist, Alexandria City Public Schools

Ames Community School District (IA), Ames, Iowa
Ames Storytellers
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Amy DeLashmutt, Director of Communications, Ames Community School District (IA)
Matilyn Erickson, Communication Specialist, Ames Community School District

Ankeny Community School District, Ankeny, Iowa
2025 G.O. Bond Public Engagement Campaign
Submitted by:
Samantha Aukes, Chief of Communications, Ankeny Community School District
Shannon Cole, Communications Coordinator, Ankeny Community School District
Michelle Siefkas, Communications Specialist, Ankeny Community School District
Shelley Rouse, Communications Coordinator, Ankeny Community School District

Arizona School Boards Association (AZ), Phoenix, Arizona
ASBA Annual Membership Survey Campaign
Submitted by:
Danielle Cole, Multimedia Communications Specialist, Arizona School Boards Association (AZ)
Heidi Vega, Director of Communications, Arizona School Board Association
Jayla Alston, Multimedia Communications Specialist, Arizona School Boards Association
Gina Razo, Communications Coordinator, Arizona School Boards Association

Arlington Public Schools (VA), Arlington, Virginia
FACE Impact Reports
Submitted by:
Elisabeth Lúa, Supervisor for Family Engagement, Arlington Public Schools (VA)

Atlanta Public Schools, Atlanta, Georgia
HR Summit: Strengthening Leadership and Talent
Submitted by:
Nicole Lawson, Chief Communications Officer, Atlanta Public Schools
Khiray Richards, Video Production and Media Coordinator, Atlanta Public Schools
Adrian Williams, Communications Officer - Social Media and Photography, Atlanta Public Schools
Felecia Lester, Chief Human Resources Officer, Atlanta Public Schools
Nikki Stroud, Director of Organizational Development, Atlanta Public Schools
Catherine Carter, Program Director - Career Development, Atlanta Public Schools

Barrington 220 School District (IL), Barrington, Illinois
B Here. B Now. B Engaged.
Submitted by:
Eric Steckling, Director of Communications, Barrington 220 School District (IL)
Joe Robinson, Director of Innovation, Barrington Community Unit School District 220
Peg Lasiewicki, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services & Support, Barrington Community Unit School District 220
Matt Fuller, Assistant Superintendent of Technology & Innovation, Barrington Community Unit School District 220

Beavercreek City Schools (OH), Beavercreek, Ohio
A Peek Around The Creek
Submitted by:
Elizabeth Sizemore, Director of Public Relations, Beavercreek City Schools (OH)

Berrien RESA (MI), Berrien Springs, Michigan
Anytime. Anywhere. Early Literacy Media Campaign
Submitted by:
Karen Heath, Director of Communications and Public Relations, Berrien RESA (MI)

Bethel School District (WA), Spanaway, Washington
2026 LEVY RENEWAL CAMPAIGN
Submitted by:
Douglas Boyles, Communications Director, Bethel School District (WA)
Timra Knox, Communications Manager, Bethel School District
Conor Christofferson, Assistant Director, Communications, Bethel School District
Pam Paulsen, Secretary, Bethel School District

Blue Valley Schools (KS), Overland Park, Kansas
Website Reimagined: A Digital Transformation
Submitted by:
Brianna Childers, Communications Coordinator, Blue Valley Schools (KS)
Addison Smith, Communications Specialist, Blue Valley Schools

Boerne ISD, Boerne, Texas
Community Leadership Academy
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Yvette Reyna, Executive Director of Community Engagement, Boerne ISD

Bremerton School District (WA), Bremerton, Washington
Bremerton School District's Strategic Rebranding
Submitted by:
Karen Bevers, Director of Communications & Community Engagement, Bremerton School District (WA)
Melissa Burt, Senior Graphic Designer & Content Strategist, Educational Service District 112
Heidi Barnes, Director of Creative and Web Development, Educational Service District 112

Butte-Glenn Community College (CA), Oroville, California
Summer Session Enrollment Marketing Campaign
Submitted by:
Jacqueline Dillard, Director of Marketing & Advertising, Butte-Glenn Community College (CA)

Cajon Valley Union School District (CA), EL CAJON, California
Staff Recognition Program - Cajon Valley MVP
Submitted by:
Howard Shen, Media and Communications Specialist, Cajon Valley Union School District (CA)

Captivate Media + Consulting, Eden Prairie, Minnesota
Nicollet Public School Enrollment Campaign
Submitted by:
Jake Sturgis, Founder & CEO, Captivate Media + Consulting
Chelsea Braudt, Communications Strategist, Captivate Media + Consulting
Nancy Remmert, K-8 Principal, Nicollet Public School
Robin Courrier, Principal + Superintendent, Nicollet Public School

Captivate Media + Consulting, Eden Prairie, Minnesota
St. Cloud Area Schools Referendum Campaign 2025
Submitted by:
Jake Sturgis, Founder & CEO, Captivate Media + Consulting
Chelsea Braudt, Communications Strategist, Captivate Media + Consulting
Laurie Putnam, Superintendent, St. Cloud Area School District 742
Tami Deland, Director of Community Engagement and Communications, St. Cloud Area School District 742
Karla Hiltner, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator, St. Cloud Area School District 742
Carissa Hopkins-Hoel, Communications Coordinator, St. Cloud Area School District 742

Central Valley School District, Liberty Lake, Washington
CVSD Paraeducator Shortage: Hiring Campaign
Submitted by:
Marla Nunberg, Director of Communications, Central Valley School District

Cherry Creek School District, Greenwood Village, Colorado
CCSD Excellence for the Future
Submitted by:
Abbe Smith, Chief Communications Officer, Cherry Creek School District

Chesapeake Public Schools (VA), Chesapeake, Virginia
Our Voice, Our Safety: A Student-Driven Campaign
Submitted by:
Fallon Graham, Director of Planning, Policy and Research, Chesapeake Public Schools (VA)
Robbie Bolden, Principal of Deep Creek Central Elementary, Chesapeake Public Schools
Tee Bunch-Boney, Supervisor of Planning, Policy & Research, Chesapeake Public Schools
Tawana Fortune, Supervisor of Student Conduct & Support, Chesapeake Public Schools
Matt Graham, Broadcast Media Specialist, Chesapeake Public Schools
Maranda Hall-Bell, Coordinator of Planning, Policy & Research, Chesapeake Public Schools
Jane-Marie Wieck, Director of Student Conduct and Support

Chester County Intermediate Unit, Downingtown, Pennsylvania
PA Superintendent Study Council Branding
Submitted by:
Christa Fazio, Director of Communications, Marketing & Engagement, Chester County Intermediate Unit
Ashley Boyd, Communications Manager, Chester County Intermediate Unit
Jennifer Chicosky, Marketing & Community Engagement Manager, Chester County Intermediate Unit
Madison Short, Graphic Designer, Chester County Intermediate Unit
Marc Raffa, Digital Media Specialist, Chester County Intermediate Unit

Chester County Intermediate Unit, Downingtown, Pennsylvania
TCHS Branding Campaign
Submitted by:

Christa Fazio, Director of Communications, Marketing & Engagement (CME)
Melissa Smith, Assistant Director of CME
Jennifer Chicosky, Marketing & Community Engagement Manager
Ashley Boyd, Communications Manager
Madison Short, Graphic Designer
Marielle Bozzini, Marketing Specialist
Kayla Meakim, Communications Specialist
Sarah Robinson, Adminissions Manager
Dalton Valentine, Marketing Secretary

City of St. Charles School District (MO), Saint Charles, Missouri
Strong Schools, Strong Community: Prop SCSD
Submitted by:
Mickie Plummer-Shepheard, Communications Coordinator, City of St. Charles School District (MO)

Columbia Public Schools (MO), Columbia, Missouri
CPS-TV On Demand Year Two Expanding Transparency
Submitted by:
Aurora Meyer, Communication Manager, Columbia Public Schools (MO)

Columbia Public Schools (MO), Columbia, Missouri
Every Day Counts: CPS Attendance Campaign
Submitted by:
Aurora Meyer, Communication Manager, Columbia Public Schools (MO)

Coppell ISD, COPPELL, Texas
Cowboys United We ARE the Choice Campaign
Submitted by:
Angela Brown, Chief Communications Officer, Coppell ISD
Amanda Simpson, Director of Communications, Coppell ISD
Cooper Hilton, Assistant Superintendent of Leadership & Administrative Services, Coppell ISD
Naveen Boppana, Coordinator of Digital Content & Community Engagement, Coppell ISD
Mike Gutt, Brand Experience Specialist, Coppell ISD
Susie Mayes, Administrative Assistant for the Chief Communications Officer, Coppell ISD

Denver Public Schools, DENVER, Colorado
Back-to-School Media Campaign
Submitted by:
Scott Pribble, Director, External Communications, Denver Public Schools
Bill Good, Chief of Communications, Denver Public Schools
Stephanie Eastland, Media Relations Manager, Denver Public Schools

Denver Public Schools (CO), Denver, Colorado
NEC: More Than A High School
Submitted by:
Emma Calkins, Communications Specialist, Denver Public Schools (CO)

Des Moines Public Schools (IA), Des Moines, Iowa
Reimagining Education
Submitted by:
Amanda Lewis, Sr. Communications and Public Relations Specialist, Des Moines Public Schools (IA)
Matt Smith, Interim Superintendent, Des Moines Public Schools
Phil Roeder, Director of Communications and Public Affairs, Des Moines Public Schools
Nicole Kirby, Senior Strategist, CESO Communications

Donovan Group, Bradenton, Florida
Discover Excellence: School Choice Campaign
Submitted by:
Lori Mueller, Partner, Donovan Group
Jamara Clark, Director of Student Enrollment, Pathway, & Experience, School District of Manatee County
Chrissy Kavanagh, Associate Director of Strategic Planning, School District of Manatee County
Lisa Taylor, Community Outreach and Special Events Specialist, School District of Manatee County
Jamie Carson, Communications Director, School District of Manatee County
Lynne Johnston, STEM Coordinator, School District of Manatee County

Douglas County School District, Castle Rock, Colorado
Douglas County School District Senior Gold Card
Submitted by:
Amy Pfister Work, Community Relations Coordinator, Douglas County School District
Jan Reagan, Graphic Designer, Douglas County School District
Jason Hackett, Director of Communications, Douglas County School District
Brad Wiidakas, Assistant Athletic and Activity Director, Douglas County School District
Lisa Hinton, Director of Business and Community Development, AdventHealth Castle Rock

Durango School District, Durango, Colorado
"I Drive the Future": Bus Driver Recruitment
Submitted by:
Karla Sluis, Public Information Officer, Durango School District

Durango School District, Durango, Colorado
Your Commute, Their Future: Enrollment Marketing
Submitted by:
Karla Sluis, Public Information Officer, Durango School District

Educational Service District 112, Vancouver, Washington
Beating the 60% Bond Barrier with 3/3 Wins
Submitted by:
Monique Dugaw-Greenwell, Executive Director | Communications & Public Engagement, Educational Service District 112
Melissa Burt, Senior Graphic Designer & Content Strategist, ESD 112
Justine Vazquez, Communications Manager, ESD 112
Anna Hixon, Communications Manager, ESD 112
Xander Hayes, Video Producer, ESD 112
Yolanda Rivera, Administrative Assistant, ESD 112

edVANTAGE Strategy Group, Georgetown, Texas
Choose TISD Pre-K
Submitted by:
Ronna Johnson, CEO / Founder, edVANTAGE Strategy Group
Kelly Bixler, Director of Communications, Texarkana ISD
Kimberly Smith-Martin, Chief Marketing Officer, edVANTAGE Strategy Group
Travis Cram, Chief Strategy Officer, edVANTAGE Strategy Group
Ryan Gregory, Chief Relationship Officer, edVANTAGE Strategy Group

El Paso ISD, El Paso, Texas
The Classroom and Beyond
Submitted by:
Liza Rodriguez, Chief Communications Officer, El Paso ISD
Frank Duran, Graphic Designer/Webmaster, El Paso ISD

El Paso ISD, EL PASO, Texas
Right Here. Right Now. Attendance Campaign
Submitted by:
Liza Rodriguez, Chief Communications Officer, El Paso ISD
Sehban Zaidi, Director, El Paso ISD

Erie 1 BOCES (NY), West Seneca, New York
250 Miles of Budget Mailers
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Candace Reimer, Director, Erie 1 BOCES (NY)
Michelle Rozanski, Coordinator, Communication Services, Erie 1 BOCES

Fairfax County Public Schools, Falls Church, Virginia
Reclaiming the Narrative: A Strategic Framework
Submitted by:
Beth Visioli, Executive Director of Communications, Fairfax County Public Schools
Mark Hoffman, Senior Manager II, Digital & Visual Communications, Fairfax County Public Schools
Delaina McCormack, Manager, Social Media, Fairfax County Public Schools
Zuzanna Hale, Senior Communications Specialist/Writer, Fairfax County Public Schools

Fairfax County Public Schools, Falls Church, Virginia
Brookfield ES Crisis Communications
Submitted by:
Beth Visioli, Executive Director of Communications, Fairfax County Public Schools
Lesley Hassen, Principal, Brookfield Elementary School, Fairfax County Public Schools
Rebecca Baenig, Assistant Superintendent, Region 5, Fairfax County Public Schools
Brian Lambert, Chief Safety & Security Officer, Fairfax County Public Schools
Andy Mueck, Chief Operating Officer, Fairfax County Public Schools
Tomás Harmon, Director II, Communications, Fairfax County Public Schools

Fairfax County Public Schools, Falls Church, Virginia
Bonds Build Better Schools
Submitted by:
Beth Visioli, Executive Director of Communications, Fairfax County Public Schools
Lisa Youngblood-Hall, Chief Experience & Engagement Officer, Fairfax County Public Schools
Tomás Harmon, Director II, Communications, Fairfax County Public Schools
Angela Aldave, Director II, Community Relations, Fairfax County Public Schools
Mark Hoffman, Senior Manager II, Digital & Visual Communications, Fairfax County Public Schools
Jessica Gillis, Executive Director, Capital Improvements & Planning, Fairfax County Public Schools

Fairfield County School District, Winnsboro, South Carolina
S.O.A.R. Sofa: Amplifying Student Voices
Submitted by:
Jalen Copeland, Public Information Officer, Fairfield County School District
Dr. Tony L. Hemingway, Former Superintendent, Fairfield County School District

Fayette County Public Schools (GA), Fayetteville, Georgia
Meet Mr. Ted
Submitted by:
Melinda Dreisbach, Public Information Officer, Fayette County Public Schools (GA)

Fayette County Public Schools (GA), Fayetteville, Georgia
Relaunching Launch Fayette
Submitted by:
Melinda Dreisbach, Public Information Officer, Fayette County Public Schools (GA)

Folsom Cordova Unified School District, Folsom, California
Your Future Starts with Attendance
Submitted by:
Angela Griffin Ankhelyi, Chief Communications & Community Engagement Officer, Folsom Cordova Unified School District
Gammenia Vrioni, Communications Specialist, Folsom Cordova Unified School District

Forney ISD (TX), Forney, Texas
The OC: Career, College & Community
Submitted by:
Kristin Zastoupil, Chief of Communications, Forney ISD (TX)
Susan Johnson, Executive Director of Marketing & The Forney Experience, Forney ISD
Graysen Reid, Communications Coordinator, Forney ISD
Juan Hernandez, Video Coordinator, Forney ISD
Robyn Cox, Forney Experience & Advertising Specialist, Forney ISD
Justin Eatherly, Executive Director, Forney Education Foundation

Fort Wayne Community Schools, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Rebranding Arlington STEM Elementary School
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Krista Stockman, Director of Communication and Marketing, Fort Wayne Community Schools
Mary Kay Smethers, Marketing Manager, Fort Wayne Community Schools
Emily Jones, Brand Specialist, Fort Wayne Community Schools

Frederick County Public Schools (VA), Winchester, Virginia
Champions for Kids
Submitted by:
Tara Helkowski, Executive Director of Media and Communications, Frederick County Public Schools (VA)

Frisco ISD (TX), Frisco, Texas
Expanding Access: Tuition-Based Pre-K
Submitted by:
Korinna Kirchhoff, Communications Director, Frisco Independent School District
Jacque Ballent, Communications Facilitator, Frisco Independent School District
Joshua Durham, Graphic/Web Designer, Frisco Independent School District
Amanda McCune, Chief Communications Officer, Frisco Independent School District
Rachel McReynolds, Communications Facilitator, Frisco Independent School District
Eloy Pacheco, Web Communications Facilitator, Frisco Independent School District
Tori Overton, Multimedia Coordinator, Frisco Independent School District

Frontwood Strategies, Arnold, Maryland
UD Tech Trek: Navigating Digital Parenting
Submitted by:
Nell Callahan, Founder, Frontwood Strategies
Michelle Boas, Executive Director, Upper Dublin Education Foundation

Guilford County Schools (NC), Greensboro, North Carolina
GCS District & School Logo Rebranding Initiative
Submitted by:
Lisa Garrett, Program Administrator - Web and Creative Services, Guilford County Schools (NC)
Rebecca Kaye, Senior Director, Policy & Strategic Projects, Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools (NC), Greensboro, North Carolina
Grow With Us: GCS Celebration of Excellence
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Wanda Walker, Senior Executive Director Community Engagement & Equity, Guilford County Schools (NC)
Dr. Kimberly Funderburk, Senior Director, Community Initiatives and Special Events, GCS

Harmony Public School (TX), Houston, Texas
Mom & Dad Mondays
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
John Boyd, Chief Communication & Marketing Officer, Harmony Public School (TX)

Harmony Public School (TX), Houston, Texas
25th Anniversary Writing Contest
Submitted by:
Lisa Proffit, Communications Manager, Harmony Public School (TX)
Susan Campbell, Communications Director, Harmony Public Schools

Harmony Public School (TX), Houston, Texas
25th Anniversary Communications Campaign
Submitted by:
John Boyd, Chief Communication & Marketing Officer, Harmony Public School (TX)

Harris County Department of Education, Houston, Texas
Recover Together: End Teen Addiction
Submitted by:
Danielle Clark, Chief Communications Officer, Harris County Department of Education

Highline Public Schools, Burien, Washington
Our Stories. Our Promise.
Submitted by:
Tove Tupper, Chief Communications Officer, Highline Public Schools
Mandi LeCompte, Director of Communications, Highline Public Schools
Rosie Eades, Communications Specialist, Highline Public Schools
Nicole Thompson, Communications Manager, Highline Public Schools
Carolina Moricet, Communications Manager, Highline Public Schools
Linda Isguerra, Communications Assistant, Highline Public Schools

Hoover City Schools, Hoover, Alabama
Hoover City Schools Rebrand
Submitted by:
Merrick Wilson, Executive Director of Communications, Hoover City Schools

Hoover City Schools, Hoover, Alabama
HCS Focus on the FOCUS Act Campaign
Submitted by:
Merrick Wilson, Executive Director of Communications, Hoover City Schools
Jake Cannon, Digital Media Specialist, Hoover City Schools
Bob Lawry, Chief Administrative Officer, Hoover City Schools

Ingham ISD, Mason, Michigan
Introducing BackPack Press
Submitted by:
Sara Parkinson, Communications Coordinator, Ingham ISD
Micki O'Neil, Chief Communications Officer, Ingham Intermediate School District
Lonnie Thomas, Digital Media Specialist, Ingham Intermediate School District
Lindsay Post, Consultant, Ingham Intermediate School District

Issaquah School District (WA), Issaquah, Washington
2026 Levy Renewal Campaign
Submitted by:
Mark Sherwood, Executive Director of Communications, Issaquah School District (WA)
Robert Miller, Multimedia & Web Systems Engineer, Issaquah School District
Wendy Castleman, Director of Communications, Issaquah School District
Jared Putney, Digital Media Specialist, Issaquah School District
Kim Doherty, Communications Specialist, Issaquah School District

Jamestown Public Schools (NY), Jamestown, New York
Pillars of JPS Recognition Program
Submitted by:
Cameron Hurst, Public Relations Specialist, Jamestown Public Schools (NY)

Jurupa Unified School District (CA), Jurupa Valley, California
JUSD: The Place to Be
Submitted by:
Jacqueline Paul, Director of Strategic Communications, Jurupa Unified School District (CA)
Nidia Rojas Del Real, Communications and Public Relations Specialist, Jurupa Unified School District
Eduvina Orozco, Communications and Public Relations Assistant, Jurupa Unified School District

Jurupa Unified School District (CA), Jurupa Valley, California
Literacy Without Limits -- The Next Chapter
Submitted by:
Jacqueline Paul, Director of Strategic Communications, Jurupa Unified School District (CA)
Nidia Rojas Del Real, Communications and Public Relations Specialist, Jurupa Unified School District
Eduvina Orozco, Communications and Public Relations Assistant, Jurupa Unified School District

Kalamazoo RESA, Portage, Michigan
We Are KRESA Brand and Awareness Initiative
Submitted by:
Sandy Barry-Loken, Executive Director Communications & Community Engagement, Kalamazoo RESA
Elena Cousino, Communications Specialist, KRESA
Jade Evans, Communication Specialist, KRESA
Nathalie Alwane, Web Master & Accessibility Coordinator, KRESA
Destry Kiser, Senior Digital Media Specialist, KRESA

Kansas Association of School Boards, Topeka, Kansas
Academy for Communication &Engagement in Schools
Submitted by:
Kristin Magette, Assistant Executive Director of Communication Services, Kansas Association of School Boards
Wendy Johnson, District Communication Specialist, Kansas Association of School Boards
Tracee Miller, Coordinator, Member Engagement, Kansas Association of School Boards

Katy ISD, Katy, Texas
Food for Families - It's More Than a Gift Card
Submitted by:
Andrea Grooms, Chief Communications Officer, Katy ISD
Karen E. Lewis, Executive Director of Community Partnerships, Katy ISD

Kelso School District, Kelso, Washington
A Century Strong: Community-Driven Brand Refresh
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Michele Nerland, Public Information Officer, Kelso School District
Mary Beth Tack, Superintendent, Kelso School District

Kennewick School District, Kennewick, Washington
Bus Driver Recruitment Campaign
Submitted by:
Robyn Chastain, Executive Director of Communications and Public Relations, Kennewick School District

Kennewick School District, Kennewick, Washington
17 Schools,One Message: Safety Officer Expansion
Submitted by:
Robyn Chastain, Executive Director of Communications and Public Relations, Kennewick School District
Emily McLaughlin, Digital Content Manager, Kennewick School District
Sandie Salisbury, Communications Coordinator, Kennewick School District

Kennewick School District, Kennewick, Washington
School Engagement Dashboards: Data to Action
Submitted by:
Robyn Chastain, Executive Director of Communications and Public Relations, Kennewick School District
Emily McLaughlin, Digital Content Manager, Kennewick School District
Sandie Salisbury, Communications Coordinator, Kennewick School District

Kennewick School District, Kennewick, Washington
2026 Levy Communications Campaign
Submitted by:
Robyn Chastain, Executive Director of Communications and Public Relations, Kennewick School District
Emily McLaughlin, Digital Content Manager, Kennewick School District
Sandie Salisbury, Communications Coordinator, Kennewick School District

Kern High School District, Bakersfield, California
Principal Partners’ Day
Submitted by:
Stan Greene, Director of School Support Services, Kern High School District

Killeen ISD, Killeen, Texas
Killeen ISD's Heart of Gold Award
Submitted by:
Karen Rudolph, Executive Director for Communications and Marketing, Killeen ISD
Sarah Fox, Communications Specialist, Killeen Independent School District
Yaileen Nieves, Website Coordinator, Killeen Independent School District
Caroline Gonzalez Hernandez, Communications Coordinator, Killeen Independent School District

La Porte ISD, La Porte, Texas
LPISD Open Enrollment Campaign
Submitted by:
Devin Dozier, Communications Coordinator, La Porte ISD
Adam J. Holland, Director of Communications & Community Relations, La Porte ISD
Devin Dozier, Communications Coordinator, La Porte ISD

Laura Bishop Communications, Cherry Hill, New Jersey
Campaign Brings Bus Drivers on Board
Submitted by:
Rose Pezzuti, Senior Account Manager, Laura Bishop Communications

Lawrence Township Public Schools (NJ), Lawrenceville, New Jersey
Strategic Communication Drives Referendum Win
Submitted by:
Jennifer Baldassari, Communications Manager, Lawrence Township Public Schools (NJ)

Lincoln Public Schools, Lincoln, Nebraska
LPS Focus Programs Enrollment Marketing
Submitted by:
Marlenia Thornton, Communications Coordinator, Lincoln Public Schools
Brian Fitzgerald, Web Communications Manager, Lincoln Public Schools
Ryan Simanek, Graphics Manager, Lincoln Public Schools
BriAna Wycoff, Media Coordinator, Lincoln Public Schools
Brent Hardin, Communications Specialist, Lincoln Public Schools

Los Gatos Union School District, Los Gatos, California
Service Above Self: Fostering Belonging
Submitted by:
Karen Briones, Communications Coordinator, Los Gatos Union School District

Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District, Los Gatos, California
From Bell to Bell, No Cell: How Engagement Led to Seamless Policy Change
Submitted by:
Tanya De La Cruz, Public Information & Engagement Officer, Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District

Loudoun County Public Schools (VA), Ashburn, Virginia
Student Dialogue: Voice, Belonging and Impact
Submitted by: 
Christina Arpante, Ed.D., Coordinator of Strategic Communications, Loudoun County Public Schools 
Joan Sahlgren, Director of Communication and Community Engagement, Loudoun County Public Schools 
Michelle Slye, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent, Loudoun County Public Schools

Loudoun County Public Schools (VA), Ashburn, Virginia
Belonging by Design: Communications That Matter
Submitted by:
Joan Sahlgren, Director of Strategic Communications, Loudoun County Public Schools (VA)

Loudoun County Public Schools (VA), Ashburn, Virginia
Positioned to Compete: Research-Driven Hiring
Submitted by:
Erin Robinson, Communications Supervisor, Loudoun County Public Schools
Hillary Donovan, Recruitment Marketing Specialist, Loudoun County Public Schools

Maryland State Department of Education, Baltimore, Maryland
Maryland Momentum: Strategic Plan 2025
Submitted by:
Raven Hill, Senior Executive Director, Office of Communications, Maryland State Department of Education

Minnetonka Public Schools, Minnetonka, Minnesota
Minnetonka Schools 2025 Building Bond Referendum
Submitted by:
Mary Cornelius, Communications Specialist, Minnetonka Public Schools
Dr. JacQui Getty, Executive Director of Communications, Minnetonka Public Schools
Daniel Campbell, Creative Director, Minnetonka Public Schools
Andy Smith, Audiovisual Specialist, Minnetonka Public Schools

Mobile County Public School System (AL), Mobile, Alabama
MCPSS-U: Building Advocates for Our District
Submitted by:
Sally Ericson, Community Engagement Specialist, Mobile County Public School System (AL)
Rena Philips, Director of Communication, Mobile County Public Schools

Mobile County Public Schools, Mobile, Alabama
Redesigning mcpss.com
Submitted by:
Rena Philips, Director of Communication, Mobile County Public Schools
The MCPSS Website Committee , , Mobile County Public Schools

Modesto City Schools, Modesto, California
MYM: A Framework for College & Career Readiness
Submitted by:
Linda Mumma Solorio, Director of Communications, Modesto City Schools
Sharokina Shams, Associate Superintendent of Communications and Community Engagement, Modesto City Schools
Leah Klascius, Administrative Assistant to the Associate Superintendent of Communications and Community Engagement, Modesto City Schools
Alissa Burton, Communications Specialist, Modesto City Schools
Lilly Cortes Wyatt, & Karla Aparicio , , SociosPR
Landon Lee, & CJ Mendez , Co-Founders, Noble Creative Collective

Multnomah Education Service District (MESD), Portland, Oregon
Regional Crisis Communications Coordination
Submitted by:
Marifer Sager, Director of Strategic Communications and Public Affairs, Multnomah Education Service District (MESD)
Tessa Franzese, Senior Communications Specialist, Multnomah Education Service District
Celine De Clercq, Senior Communications Specialist, Multnomah Education Service District

New Orleans Public School System, New Orleans, Louisiana
NOLA Public Schools: Defying Enrollment Decline
Submitted by:
Taslin Alfonzo, Executive Director of Public Relations, New Orleans Public School System

New Orleans Public School System, New Orleans, Louisiana
From Confusion to Clarity: Birth-4 Enrollment
Submitted by:
Khiry Jones, Director of Early Childhood Outreach and Family Access, New Orleans Public School System
Jonika Julian-Harris, Executive Director of Early Childhood Education, NOLA Public Schools
Halltonya Kelly, Director of Early Childhood Operations, NOLA Public Schools
Prisca Washington, Director of Early Childhood Partnerships and Supports, NOLA Public Schools
Whitney Jase, Student Enrollment Assistant, NOLA Public Schools
Ashley Whitmore, Student Enrollment Assistant, NOLA Public Schools

New Trier Township HS District 203, Northfield, Illinois
The Trevian Experience
Submitted by:
Lia Fahs, Communications Coordinator, New Trier Township HS District 203
Niki Dizon, Chief Communications Office, New Trier Township HS District 203

Orange County Public Schools (FL), Orlando, Florida
OCPS Unified Communications Platform
Submitted by:
Jason Smith, Director, Public Relations, Orange County Public Schools (FL)
Scott Howat, Chief Communications Officer, Orange County Public Schools
Shari Bobinski, Director, Media Relations, Orange County Public Schools
Carlos Hernandez, Assistant Director, Web & Graphic Design, Orange County Public Schools

Orangeburg County School District (SC), Orangeburg, South Carolina
Bruin Legacy: One Last Walk
Submitted by:
Taylor Johnson, Communications Multimedia Specialist, Orangeburg County School District (SC)

Oregon School District, Oregon, Wisconsin
Readiness for Learning: Community Engagement
Submitted by:
Chelsea Janke, Vice President Integrated Marketing, Oregon School District
Erika Mundinger, Director of Communications, Oregon School District
Andrew A. Hagen, Integrated Communications Coordinator, CEL Marketing PR Design

Paradise Valley USD (AZ), Phoenix, Arizona
Seriously Social: Cultivating Safety & Awareness
Submitted by:
Mat Droge, Director, Marketing and Communications, Paradise Valley USD (AZ)
Sarah Hackett, Communications Specialist (PIO), Paradise Valley Unified School District
Therese Mexas, Marketing and Communications Translator, Paradise Valley Unified School District
Zac Strohfus, Digital and Social Media Specialist, Paradise Valley Unified School District
Nicole LeMarr, Digital Media Specialist, Paradise Valley Unified School District
Kara Angeli, Website Marketing Specialist, Paradise Valley Unified School District

Pattonville School District, Saint Ann, Missouri
Cell Phone Free
Submitted by:
Kelly Gordon, Chief Communications Officer, Pattonville School District

Peninsula School District, Gig Harbor, Washington
2026 Levy Informational Campaign
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Michael Farmer, Chief of Schools, Peninsula School District

Pflugerville ISD, Pflugerville, Texas
3Es Promise: Employment, Enrollment & Enlistment
Submitted by:
Tamra Spence, Chief Communications Officer, Pflugerville ISD
Tamra Spence, Chief Communications Officer, Pflugerville ISD
David Sanchez, Publications & New Media Coordinator, Pflugerville ISD
Christina Schneider, Assistant Director of Communications, Pflugerville ISD

Pflugerville ISD, Pflugerville, Texas
Pflugerville Pfriendly
Submitted by:
Tamra Spence, Chief Communications Officer, Pflugerville ISD
Tamra Spence, Chief Communications Officer, Pflugerville ISD
David Sanchez, Publications & New Media Coordinator, Pflugerville ISD
Christina Schneider, Assistant Director of Communications, Pflugerville ISD

Pittsford Schools (NY), Pittsford, New York
25th Anniversary of the Rainbow Classic
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Nancy Wayman, Director of Communication, Pittsford Schools (NY)
Nancy Wayman, Director of Communication, Pittsford Schools
Laurie Everhart, Sr. Communication Specialist, Pittsford Schools

Plano ISD Communications, Plano, Texas
Branding & Style Guide: A Unified District Brand
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Lesley Range-Stanton, Chief Communications Officer, Plano ISD Communications
Mitchell Jackson, Creative Services Coordinator, Plano Independent School District
Rodrigo Martinez, Communications Specialist, Graphic Design, Plano Independent School District

Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25, Pocatello, Idaho
You Belong Here: Stabilizing Enrollment
Submitted by:
Courtney Fisher, Director of Communications, Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25

Portage Public Schools (MI), Portage, Michigan
Superintendent Transition Project
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Kayla Miller, Communications Coordinator, Portage Public Schools (MI)

Public Schools of the Tarrytowns, Sleepy Hollow, New York
Why Tarrytown Faculty & Staff Spotlight Campaign
Submitted by:
Anthony DiNoto, Public Relations Specialist, Public Schools of the Tarrytowns

Redlands Unified School District, Redlands, California
Transitional Kindergarten/Kindergarten Enrollment Campaign
Submitted by:
Christine Stephens, Communications Manager / Public Information Officer, Redlands Unified School District
Rebecca Maschack, Multimedia Communications Specialist, Redlands Unified School District
Karen Pineda, Multimedia Communications Specialist, Redlands Unified School District

Rochester City School District (NY), Rochester, New York
Strive for Five Attendance Campaign
Submitted by:
Marisol Ramos-Lopez, Chief of Communications, Rochester City School District (NY)

Rockland BOCES (NY), West Nyack, New York
LRG Superintendent Launch Campaign
Submitted by:
Scott Salotto, Executive Director of Communications and Governmental Relations, Rockland BOCES (NY)
Jacqueline Dodrill, Public Information Specialist, Rockland BOCES

School District of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
I AM SDP Marketing Campaign
Submitted by:
Kathryn Block, Marketing Officer, School District of Philadelphia
Tom Gailey, Marketing Consultant, Gailey Murray Communications
Jaden Gibson, Senior Designer, School District of Philadelphia
Alex Coppadge, Chief of Communications and External Relations, School District of Philadelphia
Jeffrey Santoleri, Director, Camos Media
Tyra Brown, Producer, Camos Media

Scottsdale USD #48, Scottsdale, Arizona
Our Focus, Their Future
Submitted by:
Kristine Harrington, Communications & Marketing Director, Scottsdale USD #48
Cymphanie Sherman, Communications Manager,
Torrence Dunham, Digital Content Manager,
Steven Paluch, Web Content Strategy Manager,

Scottsdale USD #48, Scottsdale, Arizona
Math & Science Academy (MSA) Expansion to Mohave Middle School
Submitted by:
Kristine Harrington, Communications & Marketing Director, Scottsdale USD #48
Cymphanie Sherman, Communications Manager,
Torrence Dunham, Digital Content Manager,
Steven Paluch, Web Content Strategy Manager,

Scottsdale USD #48, Scottsdale, Arizona
Coronado Fire Science
Submitted by:
Kristine Harrington, Communications & Marketing Director, Scottsdale USD #48
Cymphanie Sherman, Communications Manager,
Torrence Dunham, Digital Content Manager,
Steven Paluch, Web Content Strategy Manager,

Scottsdale USD #48, Scottsdale, Arizona
SUSD Education Expo
Submitted by:
Kristine Harrington, Communications & Marketing Director, Scottsdale USD #48
Steven Paluch, Web Content Strategy Manager, Scottsdale Unified School District
Cymphanie Sherman, Communications Manager, Scottsdale Unified School District
Torrence Dunham, Digtal Content Manager, Scottsdale Unified School District

Socorro ISD, El Paso, Texas
Socorro ISD Elite Enrollment Campaign
Submitted by:
Daniel Escobar, Chief Communications Officer, Socorro ISD

Solano County Office of Education, Fairfield, California
Winged Migration Expo & Student STEAM Challenge
Submitted by:
Karin Sturgis, Graphic Media & Community Outreach Specialist, Solano County Office of Education
Jennifer Leonard, Assistant Superintendent Communications, Community Engagement and Emergency Management, Solano County Office of Education
Johanna Borrelli, Executive Assistant, Solano County Office of Education
Ernie Holly, Digital Media Manager, Solano County Office of Education
Karin Sturgis, Graphic Media & Community Outreach Specialist, Solano County Office of Education

Special School District of St. Louis County, St. Louis, Missouri
Transition Planning with Charting the LifeCourse
Submitted by:
Janaca Scherer, Director of Communications, Special School District of St. Louis County
Karla Reichert, Director of Evaluation & Strategic Initiatives, Special School District of St. Louis County

Spring Branch ISD, Houston, Texas
Elevating Brand & Engagement with Video
Submitted by:
Melissa Wiland, Director of Communications, Spring Branch ISD

Spring Branch ISD, Houston, Texas
2025 Bond Campaign
Supplemental Entry Materials
Submitted by:
Melissa Wiland, Director of Communications, Spring Branch ISD

Spring Branch ISD, Houston, Texas
Caught you reading!
Submitted by:
Melissa Wiland, Communications Director, Spring Branch ISD

Springdale Public Schools, Springdale, Arkansas
2025 Ozark Media Arts Festival
Submitted by:
Leah Garrett, Ozark Media Arts Festival Director, Springdale Public Schools
Jamie Taidrik, Content Creator, Springdale Public Schools
Camden Cleveland, Content Creator, Springdale Public Schools
Micah DeLacy, Videographer, Springdale Public Schools
Omar Gonzalez, Videoographer, Springdale Public Schools
Kade Lloyd, Social Media and Content Creator, Springdale Public Schools

Springfield Public Schools (MO), Springfield, Missouri
SPS.org Website Redesign
Submitted by:
Shelby Grace, Coordinator of Marketing and Digital Strategies, Springfield Public Schools (MO)
Teresa Bledsoe, Director of Communications, Springfield Public Schools
Stephen Hall, Chief Communications Officer, Springfield Public Schools

Spring-Ford Area School District, Royersford, Pennsylvania
Spring-Ford WCAG 2.1 Accessibility Plan
Submitted by:
Erin Crew, Director of Communications, Marketing, and Media, Spring-Ford Area School District
Andrew Rothermel, Coordinator of Media Communications, Spring-Ford Area School District

St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, Covington, Louisiana
Streamlining Celebrations for Greater Impact
Submitted by:
Christian Justrabo, Communication Specialist, St. Tammany Parish Public Schools
Meredith Mendez, Communications Director, St. Tammany Parish Public School System
Angela Dugan, Communications Manager, St. Tammany Parish Public School System
Brian Nixdorff, Communications Specialist, St. Tammany Parish Public School System

Tempe Elementary Schools, Tempe, Arizona
Walking Through Time: A Celebration of 150 Years
Submitted by:
Monica Allread, Director of Communications, Tempe Elementary Schools
Brittany Franklin, Chief of Staff, Tempe Elementary Schools
Amy Garza, Visual Communication Specialist Sr., Tempe Elementary Schools
Laura Hallstrom, Brand Storyteller, Tempe Elementary Schools
Gina Kaegi, Head of Marketing, Tempe Elementary Schools
Michael Kandaris, Video Production Specialist, Tempe Elementary Schools

Tuscaloosa County School System (AL), Tuscaloosa, Alabama
TCSS U: Informing Advocates for Our Schools
Submitted by:
Terri Brewer, Director of Public Relations, Tuscaloosa County School System (AL)

Ukiah Unified School District, Ukiah, California
Take our 2-Minute Survey Parent Perception Campaign
Submitted by:
Dan Dougherty, Communications Officer, Ukiah Unified School District

Ulster BOCES, New Paltz, New York
Power of an Exit Poll: From Setback to Success
Submitted by:
Holly Brooker, Director of Community Relations, Ulster BOCES
Holly Brooker, Director of Community Relations, Ulster BOCES
Renee Janowicz, Retired, Retired

Waukee Community School District (IA), Waukee, Iowa
Kindergarten Signing Day
Submitted by:
Kayla Choate, Executive Director of Communications (Waukee CSD), Waukee Community School District (IA)
Kelly Jellings, Communications Manager, Waukee Community School District
Carter Huyser, Community Outreach Coordinator, Waukee Community School District
Haley Turnis, Communications Specialist, Waukee Community School District

Wentzville R-IV School District (MO), Wentzville, Missouri
Wentzville WOW Factor Award: Staff Recognition
Submitted by:
Brynne Cramer, Chief Communications Officer, Wentzville R-IV School District (MO)

Ysleta ISD (TX), El Paso, Texas
Must #BePresent To Win! Attendance Campaign
Submitted by:
Tracy Garcia, Director of Communications, Ysleta ISD (TX)
Hector Saenz, Director of Marketing, Ysleta ISD