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Stevens Point Area Public School District

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NEWS RELEASE: Stevens Point Area Public School District Earns Multiple Spectrum Awards for Excellence in School Communications

Communications Dept
NEWS RELEASE: Stevens Point Area Public School District Earns Multiple Spectrum Awards for Excellence in School Communications

News Release​

​Stevens Point Area Public School District

1900 Polk Street

Stevens Point, WI 54481

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

CONTACT:            Sarah O’Donnell, director of communications
                              715/343-6629 | sodonnel@pointschools.net 

December 16, 2025 

Stevens Point Area Public School District Earns Multiple Spectrum Awards for Excellence in School Communications

The Stevens Point Area Public School District was recently honored by the Wisconsin School Public Relations Association (WSPRA) with multiple Spectrum Awards recognizing excellence in school communications.

WSPRA presented the Spectrum Awards at its annual conference held November 12–14. The district earned:

  • a 2025 Award of Merit in the Video, Short category for Beyond Expectations, the district’s 2024 Back-to-School Kickoff Video, and
     

  • an Award of Excellence and Best in Category recognition for the district’s 2024–25 website redesign.

“These awards reflect the intentional, behind-the-scenes work that goes into keeping our community informed and connected,” said Superintendent Dr. Cory Hirsbrunner. “Clear, accessible communication doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of strategic planning, collaboration, and a deep understanding of our families’ needs. We’re proud of the work our Communications team has led to strengthen transparency and trust across our district.”

Spectrum Awards recognize high-quality school communication and engagement efforts by or on behalf of Wisconsin school districts. This statewide competition honored nearly 100 school districts and CESAs for exemplary work in strategic communication, storytelling, and community engagement.

“Each year we are inspired by the thoughtful, strategic and heartfelt communication work happening across Wisconsin,” said Emily DeBaker, current WSPRA President and Chief of Staff for the Racine Unified School District. “These award-winning projects reflect a deep commitment to transparency, connection and community pride. We are grateful for the school PR professionals who work tirelessly to ensure families, staff and community members feel informed, supported and engaged.”

“Strong communication strengthens strong schools,” noted Debbie Brewster, WSPRA Executive Director. “This year’s award recipients demonstrate what’s possible when districts prioritize clarity, connection, and genuine community engagement. Their work makes a lasting difference in the lives of students and families.”

WSPRA’s Spectrum Awards were judged by more than 50 members of other school public relations associations from across the country, representing states from New York to California.

The Wisconsin School Public Relations Association (WSPRA) is a professional association representing schools, school districts, educational associations, consulting agencies, and organizations. WSPRA is a state affiliate of the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). Its mission is to expand the capacity of its members to provide effective communication management in support of strong public education and student success.

 

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Sarah O’Donnell, Director of Communications, holds two WSPRA Spectrum Awards recognizing the district’s website redesign and back-to-school video.

 

​CUTLINE: Stevens Point Area Public School District Director of Communications Sarah O’Donnell holds the district’s WSPRA Spectrum Awards, recognizing an Award of Merit for the Beyond Expectations 2024 Back-to-School Kickoff video and an Award of Excellence with Best in Category for the district’s 2024–25 website redesign. (Photo/Stevens Point Area Public School District)