Building Confident, Capable School Communicators

The New Professionals track of NSPRA Academy is an eight-month learning experience designed specifically for school communicators in the first five years of a school communications role. Through a combination of peer-led modules, real-world scenarios and professional connections, participants will build a strong foundation in school public relations while developing the confidence and capacity to lead.

Each month, participants will explore a core topic essential to school communication such as: 

• Learn to demonstrate the measurable results of your position that matter to leadership

• Build partnerships that make your role easier and your impact greater

• Understand media needs—whether you’re talking with reporters or creating the materials that shape the story

• Explore strategic planning in ways you can apply in your role right away
   

Sessions are led by experienced facilitators and guest speakers who bring practical insights and proven strategies to the virtual classroom.

Along the way, participants will build a library of tools and templates, gain skills in crisis planning and daily communications and begin to shape a long-term professional development plan. With the support of their facilitator and fellow cohort members, they’ll also forge connections that can guide and inspire their growth beyond the program.

The NSPRA New Professionals Academy equips early-career communicators with the clarity, resources and relationships needed to thrive in today’s dynamic education environment.    

Classes are held virtually once a month on Wednesdays for two hours from 2-4 p.m. EST.

Learning modules are underway, but the program's flexible structure allows registrants to enroll on a rolling basis. New participants receive on-demand access to past module recordings, and all enrollees are invited to monthly office hours with the Academy facilitator.

Program Dates and Topics:

• September 17 - Through the Superintendent's Eyes: Leadership, Strategy & Board Foundations
• October 15 - The 4 Rs: Research, Reference, Review, and Relationships
• November 12 - Strategic Communication Planning & Implementation (RPIE)
• January 28 - Internal Communications & Staff Engagement
• February 25 - Branding, Marketing & Digital Presence
• March 18 - Media Relations & Crisis Preparedness
• April 29 - Community Partnerships & Engagement
• May 20 - Your Communication Toolkit: Professional Growth & Impact Measurement 

Pricing and Registration:

NEW: NSPRA Academy now offers flexible purchasing options! Enroll in the full course for comprehensive development, or choose individual modules or a curated bundle of modules tailored to your needs.
 

• Full Academy Enrollment (use the teal registration button above to register)
  • $1500 for NSPRA Members
  • $2000 for Non-Members
• In-Depth Learning Bundle - 4 modules of your choosing (click here to register for this bundle)
  • $850 for NSPRA Members
  • $1200 for Non-Members
• Knowledge Builder Bundle - 3 modules of your choosing (click here to register for this bundle)
  • $700 for NSPRA Members
  • $975 for Non-Members
• Core Essentials Bundle - 2 modules of your choosing (click here to register for this bundle)
  • $500 for NSPRA Members
  • $700 for Non-Members
• Single Module Registration (click here to register for individual modules)
  • $299 for NSPRA Members
  • $425 for Non-Members

REGISTRATION FOR THE FULL PROGRAM IS LIMITED TO 80 PARTICIPANTS

BONUS learning opportunity included in registration cost: All track participants will be invited to attend NSPRA Academy Day just ahead of the NSPRA 2026 National Seminar for a full day of extended learning.

Saturday, July 18, 2026
New Orleans, Louisiana
Further details to be announced at a later date.