Jackson Public Schools (JPS) is celebrating a big win after receiving seven awards for its school public relations work. The district was recently recognized by both the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) and the Mississippi School Public Relations Association (MSPRA) for creative, strategic, and effective communication with families, staff, and the community.

These awards highlight strong performance in areas like social media, marketing, publications, and planning. Six of the honors came from NSPRA’s national competition, which showcases top communication efforts from school districts across the country. The seventh was awarded by MSPRA, recognizing achievement on the state level.

“These honors reflect our commitment to keeping our families informed, engaged, and connected,” said Dr. William Merritt, JPS Chief of Staff. “Behind every post, publication, and video is a team working to share the great things happening in our district.”

 

Mississippi School Public Relations Association (MSPRA)

• Award of Excellence Writing Finalist: Jackson Public Schools News Article

National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA)

• Honorable Mention Publication and Digital Media: Jackson Public Schools Annual Report
• Award of Merit Marketing: 2023-2024 JPS Spirit of Excellence Publication
• Honorable Mention Social Media: JPS Facebook Post for National IT Professionals Day
• Award of Merit Social Media: JPS Joy Photo Post
• Award of Merit Special Purpose Publication: Jackson Public Schools Strategic Plan 2024–2029
• Honorable Mention Social Media: JPS Joy Social Media Video

 

From joyful scholar moments to the rollout of the district’s five-year strategic plan, each recognized piece reflects the district’s efforts to inform and inspire through storytelling and visual design.

“These recognitions aren’t just about creativity or visuals; they show how intentional communication can connect a school system with the community it serves,” said Sherwin Johnson, Executive Director of Public Engagement. “We’re proud to tell the stories of our scholars and staff every single day.”

Jackson Public Schools continues to lead the way in school communications across Mississippi and beyond.

Members of the Public Engagement team who contributed to these exciting national award recognitions include Sherwin Johnson, Sharie Harvin, Georgette Keeler, Tommy Robertson, Forrest Broadway, Eric Fowler, and Ted Warren.

Dr. William Merritt IV contributed to the Strategic Plan, and Latoya Blackshear produced the Annual Report.