We’re proud to share some exciting news: the School District of Lancaster’s Office of Communications has been recognized by the Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association (PenSPRA) with several awards in the 2024 Excellence in Education Communications Contest.
These awards celebrate high-quality storytelling and effective communication across public school districts in Pennsylvania and SDoL stood out in multiple categories.
In the Video (Singular) category, we received:
-
Award of Excellence for Teacher and Staff Appreciation 2024
-
Award of Excellence for Martin School: Alone
-
Award of Merit for Lancaster’s Plan – Zyaire & The Facilities Band
In the Video (Series) category, we were awarded:
-
Award of Excellence for Jobs that Matter, a series spotlighting the essential roles that keep our schools running and support student success.
“These projects reflect our continued efforts to elevate the voices of our students, staff, and community through meaningful, creative storytelling,” said Adam Aurand, Director of Strategic Communications. “We believe that authentic, people-centered storytelling helps build understanding and trust in our schools, and we’re grateful to be part of that work.”
PenSPRA has supported school communicators since 1969. Its annual awards program recognizes communication efforts that strengthen relationships between schools and the communities they serve.
“We set out to create content that reflects the real voices in our schools and departments–not polished PR, but genuine connection,” said Tim Mercandetti, Media Production Specialist. “To see that approach resonate with others in the field means a lot.”
“For me, it’s meaningful on so many levels,” said Tim, reflecting on his recent recognitions. “I’m in a position now that never existed before and to win awards representing the School District of Lancaster, the same district I came from, is really special.”
As someone who walked the halls of SDoL as a student, Tim remembers a different narrative. “Growing up, no one highlighted the good happening in our schools, we were always labeled the ‘urban school.’ Now, I get to change that. I love this job because I get to showcase the real stories, the amazing people, and the everyday moments that prove how much heart this district has. Winning these awards means we’re finally being seen for who we really are.”
We’re honored by this recognition and energized to keep producing content that reflects the heart of Lancaster’s public schools. Thank you to PenSPRA for celebrating school communications and thank you to our SDoL community for continuing to share your stories with us.