Last spring, ASBO International and NSPRA held focus groups with school business officials and communication professionals to better understand how districts communicate about school finance.

What do journalists really wish school public relations professionals understood before hitting “send” on that pitch or press release? For three former Emmy Award–winning television journalists now serving in chief communications roles for South Carolina school districts, the answer comes from lived experience on both sides of the story.

Happy Public Schools Week! There’s no easier way to join the celebration than by using the ready-to-go toolkit from the Learning First Alliance.

Throughout the month, we’re sharing stories and perspectives from NSPRA members that honor lived experiences and explore how communication can foster belonging in our schools and communities all year round.

Nominations for the 2026 Barry Gaskins Mentor Legacy Award, Bob Grossman Leadership in School Communications Award, NSPRA Presidents Award and Learning and Liberty Legacy Leaders Recognition are now open.