Communication Builds Support

It can be easy to overlook a school board’s role in public relations. But good public relations can strengthen ties with parents, advance student achievement, and forge community support for the schools.

NJSBA’s Annual Communications Competition honors school districts that have demonstrated their commitment to public education through exemplary publications and public relations programs.

The 2006 program will recognize outstanding school district communication materials in various categories, including annual reports, audio-visual media, school calendars, finance publications, information guides and handbooks, magazines, newsletters, public relations projects, district Web sites, and school district exhibits at the annual Workshop.

Entries will be judged on appearance, writing and concept, editing, layout/design, art/photography, printing, and informational and educational value. All entries must have been published or produced for use between September 1, 2005 and July 31, 2006.

A $25 fee is required for each submission (except for Workshop exhibits). All entries must be received at NJSBA headquarters in Trenton no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, August 4, 2006. Winners will be recognized during a ceremony at Workshop 2006 in October.

 Volunteers Needed

Workshop 2006 is going to be bigger and more exciting than ever! Would you like to be an important part of it? Volunteer to be an aide, evaluator, or group session chairperson.

Workshop aides help ensure that programs run smoothly, greet people and distribute handouts. Evaluators distribute and collect the evaluation forms. Chairpersons introduce speakers at group sessions and moderate question-and-answer periods.

We need you to make Workshop a success. For information, contact Mark Bonjovanni of the Inservice Education Department at (888) 886-5722 ext. 5207.