Several school districts and communications professionals across Southwest Washington received 2026 National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) awards, bringing national recognition to the Educational Service District (ESD) 112 region and highlighting the power of strong partnerships.

This year, ESD 112 and its district partners earned eight awards in the Golden Achievement and Publications and Digital Media Excellence categories. Five of the eight winning entries were submitted independently by district partners, reflecting the pride and trust built through their collaborative work.

ESD 112 Recognized for Strategic Support of School Funding Measures

ESD 112 received a Golden Achievement Award for “Beating the 60% Bond Barrier with 3/3 Wins,” recognizing the communications team’s work supporting school bond campaigns during the February 2026 election cycle. Led by Executive Director of Communications & Public Engagement Monique Dugaw and supported by Senior Graphic Designer & Content Strategist Melissa Burt, Communications Managers Justine Vazquez and Anna Hixon, Video Coordinator Xander Hayes and Administrative Assistant Yolanda Rivera, the team provided customized, Public Disclosure Commission-compliant communications support tailored to each district’s needs. All three bond measures passed with more than 65% voter approval, and 26 of 27 levy measures supported by ESD 112 were approved, resulting in a 97% passage rate among partner districts.

Award-winning District Partnerships

School districts throughout the region also earned national honors for projects developed in partnership with ESD 112 communications professionals.

Kelso School District Earns Two National Awards

Kelso School District received two Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards for its “From Kinder to Cap and Gown” publication and “Welcome Back to School” mailer. Public Information Officer Michele Nerland and Superintendent Mary Beth Tack partnered with ESD 112’s Melissa Burt and Anna Hixon to create engaging publications that connect families with district news and student success.

North Kitsap School District Recognized for Community Newsletter

North Kitsap School District earned a Publications and Digital Media Excellence Award for its Report to the Community newsletter. North Kitsap’s Communications Director Jenn Markaryan partnered with ESD 112’s Melissa Burt to create a publication that keeps families and community members informed and connected to district priorities.

Sequim School District Receives Digital Media Excellence Award

Sequim School District received a Publications and Digital Media Excellence Award for “More Than a Vote,” a community engagement effort focused on school facilities and future investments. The project was led by Public Information Officer Megan Lyke and Superintendent Regan Nickels, with support from School Board President Eric Pickens and ESD 112’s Monique Dugaw.

Bremerton School District Rebrand Earns Golden Achievement Award

Bremerton School District received a Golden Achievement Award for its strategic rebranding initiative, a collaborative project led by Director of Communications & Community Engagement Karen Bevers, in partnership with ESD 112’s Director of Creative and Web Development, Heidi Barnes. Guided by a communications audit and the district’s strategic plan, the project engaged students, staff, families and community members in shaping a new visual identity for the district. High school graphic design students developed more than 20 logo concepts, which were used as inspiration for the final brand that honors Bremerton’s history while looking to the future. ESD 112’s Melissa Burt assisted in executing the new brand through a cohesive suite of materials.

Kalama School District Recognized for Strategic Plan

Kalama School District earned a Publications and Digital Media Excellence Award for its strategic plan. Led by Chief of Staff Steve Padilla and designed by ESD 112’s Melissa Burt, the project clearly communicated the district’s vision and priorities to students, staff, and the community.

Green Mountain School District Website Earns National Recognition

ESD 112 received a Publications and Digital Media Excellence Award for the Green Mountain School District website. Led by ESD 112’s WordPress Developer and Content Marketing Manager Laura Martin, the project created a modern, accessible online experience for students, families and community members.

Communication Strengthens Schools and Communities

The 2026 NSPRA awards highlight the important role communication plays in building trust and strengthening connections within school communities.

“These awards celebrate nationally recognized excellence in communications, but they also represent something even more important,” Dugaw said. “They reflect the trust and confidence our partners have in our team and the care with which we approach the work.”