Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) has been awarded 15 national communications awards from the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) for its efforts to provide information about the school district to a variety
of audiences. The awards in NSPRA’s Publication and Digital Media Excellence program “exemplify the impactful, innovative work shaping the future of school communication,” NSPRA said in its announcement.
Seven of the awards are Awards of Excellence, the highest given in the program. They are:
“A Bright Day of Discovery,” a photo of elementary school students getting crayons and pencils from their supply boxes and preparing for instruction by Photo Display Support Specialist Jessica Livoni.
“Facing the Moment Ahead,” a photo of an Old Mill High School graduate delivering a speech at her commencement ceremony by Photo Display Support Specialist Jessica Livoni.
“An Exciting Future Awaits,” a photo of an Old Mill High School graduate hoisting his diploma high while leaving the stage at his commencement ceremony by Photo Display Support Specialist Tracey Sanders.
“Smart Cookie 2.0: Scoops for Schools,” a video by Video Production Specialists Jon Francis and Brian Tankersley, Communications Content Specialist Meghan O’Brien and Audio Engineer Chris Koawl promoting a fundraising campaign for the Education Foundation of AACPS.
“2026 Cool Schools Plunge,” a video by Video Production Specialist Jon Francis promoting the annual event at Sandy Point State Park to benefit Special Olympics Maryland.
“AACPS Difference Makers,” a video by Video Production Specialist Brian Tankersley, Audio Engineer Chris Koawl and Television Broadcast Manager Erik Cloyd profiling Meade High School Principal Dr. Ryan Durr
The “Athletes in Action” video series by Television Broadcast Manager Erik Cloyd and Writer/Producer Wiley Baker profiling student-athletes around the county.
Six of the awards are Awards of Merit. They are:
“Pathways to Possibilities,” a marketing materials campaign by Senior Design Specialist Jennifer Houck promoting College and Career Readiness opportunities available through AACPS’ magnet and signature programs.
“Connections are Where the Journey Begins,” a photo of two students collaborating on an assignment in class by Photo Display Support Specialist Jessica Livoni.
“Approaching the Next Chapter,” a photo of Glen Burnie High School seniors processing into their commencement ceremony by Photo Display Support Specialist Jessica Livoni.
“The Spotlight Ends and the Journey Begins,” a photo of a Glen Burnie High School graduate, with a bright spotlight behind him, leaving his commencement ceremony by Photo Display Support Specialist Jessica Livoni.
“Where Preparation Meets Promise,” a photo of an Arundel High School graduate walking across the stage to receive her diploma at her commencement ceremony by Photo Display Support Specialist Tracey Sanders.
“The Fresh APP of AACPS,” a video by Video Production Specialist Jon Francis, Audio Engineer Chris Koawl, Television Broadcast Manager Erik Cloyd and Chief Communications Officer Bob Mosier promoting the school district’s mobile app.
AACPS also earned honorable mention awards for:
“Reflecting on Achievements,” a photo of a Chesapeake High School graduate looking at his just-received diploma at his commencement ceremony by Photo Display Support Specialist Jessica Livoni.
“Why I Teach,” a social media campaign by Communications Content Specialist Megan O’Brien and Video Production Specialist Brian Tankersley featuring AACPS teachers talking about their profession and promoting the Teacher Recruitment Job Fair.
“I continue to be very impressed by the work done by our Design & Print and Communications teams,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mark Bedell said. “Their efforts help our community to better understand the incredible things that happen in our classrooms and beyond, and add a great deal to our district.”