2026-27 SUNSPRA School Communicator of the Year Award

This category reflects the highest award a school communicator can receive at the state level. Candidates should be current members of SUNSPRA, hold professional membership in NSPRA, and plan to continue working in the profession. Florida’s award winner goes on to be recognized and compete at the national level. This program is designed to recognize the outstanding leadership and contributions of active, front-line school communicators who work full-time in school districts or education service agencies. 

Procedure

Submissions will be through SUNSPRA’s electronic awards platform and include the following:

1. A summary describing the communication and public relations achievements of the nominee in the areas of Leadership, Communication, Professionalism and Community Involvement. (500 word limit)
2. A high-resolution headshot of the nominee

Criteria

• Leadership: Demonstrated leadership in successfully meeting the communication needs of their school system or educational service agency. Examples may include leading successful communication campaigns, overcoming an internal communication challenge, or creating a robust strategic communication plan.
• Communication: Demonstrated strength in both personal and organizational communication. Examples may include evidence of persuasion, the power of engagement, or influence in decision-making.
• Professionalism: Constant improvement of knowledge and skills, while providing professional development opportunities and mentoring to others. Examples may include achieving accreditation in public relations (APR), participating in NSPRA’s Mentor Match program, or serving as a presenter at the chapter or national level.
• Community Involvement: Active participation in their local community activities and an understanding of regional, national, and international issues. Examples may include volunteering in their local community, organizing a fund-raising event for their community, or writing an article that demonstrates broad knowledge of the complexities of public education.

Nominations must be submitted no later than Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Entries for this award are $50 for members, and $75 for non-members.

The portal for submissions will open Sept. 1, 2026.

The award recipient will be honored at the FSBA/FADSS 81st Annual Joint Conference in Tampa, Dec. 3, 2026.