NCSPRA Logo with Blue Ribbon Awards.  Image of ABSS Public Information Officer Les Atkins and Digital Media Coordinator James Shuler holding award plaques.  Background of Social media icons in graphic

The North Carolina School Public Relations Association (NCSPRA) honored Alamance-Burlington School System today for excellence in school communications. ABSS earned a total of five Blue Ribbon Awards for outstanding and effective school public relations.  The ceremony, which was held Friday morning in High Point, recognized 38 districts across the state. 

ABSS received one gold award for its planning, execution, and positive community relations for the new Southeast Alamance High School Topping Out Ceremony.   Public Information Officer Les Atkins received a silver award for the ABSS Difference Makers Video series featuring a deaf football player from Williams High School, the Junior Police Academy, and CTE students salvaging parts from District chromebooks for reuse.

Digital Media Coordinator James Shuler received a silver award for photography of the ABSS Back to School Celebration.  The public information office also received a silver award for its “Join our Team” campaign to recruit teachers to the District through video, social media, and the ABSS website.  The final silver award was for communicating the new ABSS Clear Bag Safety Procedure at all sporting events.  

ABSS Public Information Officer Les Atkins and Digital Media Coordinator James Shuler holding plaques in front of NCSPRA banner at awards ceremony in High Point, NC

“It’s an honor to be recognized for the work our team has done since July.  Our goal is to show the many positives in our schools, engage with our community, and shift how people think and feel about our District.  We’ve seen the result of these efforts by the positive feedback from our community and stakeholders,” said Les Atkins, Public Information Officer.  

NCSPRA is a statewide professional organization serving more than 175 members. Its mission is to build support for public education through well-planned and responsible public relations. 

“We are excited that NCSPRA recognized the amazing work our team has done this school year.  Open and honest communication with our families and stakeholders is key to the success of any school district.  That positive relationship has certainly helped us to gain the trust and confidence of our school community,” said Superintendent Dr. Dain Butler.  

“Consistent communication and active listening is more important than ever.  I’m excited to see ABSS honored for these efforts, “Atkins added.