District 70 honored with 2 state communication awards

The Illinois Chapter of the National School Public Relations Association's handed out the Awards to Excellence to District 70 during INSPRA's annual Communications Contest and Golden Achievement Awards luncheon on Sept. 18, in Oak Brook. More than 115 entries were submitted in the categories of annual reports, audio/video, calendars/handbooks, electronic publications, financial information, marketing materials, newsletters, special purpose, website and writing. Entries were judged against criteria of excellence, and only those receiving top scores in a variety of areas received awards. NSPRA chapter members from Iowa, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin served as judges for those categories.

INSPRA bestowed an Award of Excellence to Supt. Dr. Guy Schumacher and Technology Literacy Coach Chris Vipond for a stunning video about a massive solar project - funded partly by a private grant - at Butterfield and Highland Middle schools, called "Let the Sun Shine In, Making a Difference in Libertyville School District 70." In the video, filmed and edited by Vipond and Schumacher, who wrote the script and is featured, the superintendent begins talking about the project by standing next to rooftop solar panels.

INSPRA also honored Schumacher, Technology Director Pam Imholz and Public Relations Facilitator Robin Smith Kollman with an Award of Excellence for designing and creating a free on-the-go smartphone app to reach busy parents. The "Libertyville District 70" app is available at the App Store and Google Play. The app connects parents to the lunch menu, calendars, news, athletic games, concerts, and more.

"The contest recognizes the amazing communications work done by our members. It also is yet another form of professional development offered to INSPRA members, as each person who enters receives valuable feedback from the contest judges," said INSPRA President Danielle Brink, director of community relations for DuPage High School District 88.

The mission of INSPRA is to strengthen support for Illinois public schools and improve education for students through responsible public relations. Workshops and programs take place throughout the year, providing opportunities for members to learn and grow in their craft. The awards ceremony is a highlight of the year and is attended by communications professionals, superintendents, board of education members and other school leaders.

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