The North Carolina School Public Relations Association (NCSPRA) honored Roanoke Rapids Graded Schools this month for excellence in communications. RRGSD was awarded two Blue Ribbon Awards for outstanding and effective communication. The ceremony, which was held virtually this year due to COVID-19 restrictions, recognized 37 districts across the state.
RRGSD received a gold award for its video series Discover RRGSD and a bronze for photography and communication efforts for Roanoke Rapids High School’s centennial celebration last fall.
“The Roanoke Rapids High School 100th Anniversary Celebration really was a true shining moment for our city and school community. I’m so excited that we were recognized for all of the publicity and work that went into making the event such a success,” said Les Atkins, Public Information Officer.
RRGSD was also honored for its video series “Discover RRGSD” which takes a closer look at the various educational programs, unique teaching, and learning opportunities taking place inside district classrooms. As John D. Rockefeller once said, “next to doing the right thing, the most important thing is to let people know you are doing the right thing.”
“This series really gives our families and community an opportunity to see our teachers and students in action, Atkins said. One of the recent segments showed how a therapy dog is helping students feel more comfortable reading aloud.
NCSPRA’s Blue Ribbon Award ceremony also included remarks from North Carolina’s 2021 Superintendent of the Year, Brent Williams. Williams emphasized the tremendously important role that school communicators play in the success of students and public education. “You have devoted tireless effort to connecting and engaging school and community stakeholders,” Williams stated. You also have affirmed and championed the positive and consistent truth that we have seen so frequently during this pandemic: the awe inspiring power of human resilience.” Williams praised the work of the Blue Ribbon Award winners by saying. “ You have surely set a new standard of excellence. You have worked to connect and highlight, uplift and advocate, and to empower and motivate. You have given all that you have to lead by touching the hearts and minds of others.”
NCSPRA is a statewide professional organization serving more than 150 members. Its mission is to build support for public education through well-planned and responsible public relations.
“Honest, meaningful, and consistent communication is key to keeping our families and stakeholders abreast of what is happening in our classrooms and district. That ongoing partnership has helped us to gain the trust and confidence of our school community. We are excited that NCSPRA recognized the amazing work our team has done this past year,” said Interim Superintendent, Julie Thompson.