Do you love following K12 schools that are doing amazing things with their social media pages?
Me too!
So this past spring, I did something special. I created an awards program to highlight some of the top schools and School PR pros across the country, specifically recognizing their work on social media.
I announced these awards with a Facebook Live Premiere back in June – and you can catch that recording right here!
My team and I were blown away by the 135 entries. We had a hard time narrowing down our favorites, but in the end, these 12 winners stood above the rest. They represent 34 different states – plus Trinidad!
How to Use This List
- Follow each of the schools listed on your social media platform(s) of choice.
- Screenshot the post ideas you like the best and save them in your “ideas” folder or bookmark this blog for the next time you need some post inspiration.
- Share your favorite ideas with your network!
Little Moments Matter
Belton ISD, Texas
Karen Rudolph
Sharing the little moments on social media can sometimes create the biggest connections! This moment was captured and cleverly captioned – and it sent a message to the entire community.
Staff Highlight Award
Harrisonville Schools, Missouri
Jill Filer
Highlighting staff in a public, thoughtful, and meaningful way pays off in dividends with your team culture and morale. This is an excellent Staff Spotlight example with an eye-catching graphic and well-written caption!
Fantastic Facilities Campaign Award
Peninsula School District, Washington
Andrew Forhan
Major improvement projects require buy-in from your school’s wider community. Here’s a district that is communicating that story in a compelling and engaging way!
Outstanding Video Award
Jefferson Parish Schools, Louisiana
Vicki Bristol and Keith Paolini
Heartwarming stories like this one are surefire social media winners. It’s worth noting that the video itself doesn’t need to be heavily produced or elaborate – just let the story shine through!
Spreading Kindness Award
Hudsonville Public School, Michigan
Rebecca Fabiano
If there’s one thing this world needs more of, it’s kindness. This post is an excellent example of how just a simple sentiment on a basic background can be incredibly engaging.
The Power of Social Media Award
St. Jude of the Lake Catholic School, Minnesota
Stephanie Jakoblich
This school received a very generous donation from the estate of a community member. After his death, his wife shared that watching all the school’s STEM activity posts inspired him to give and kept him in good spirits while in the last weeks of his illness. Now THAT is the power of social media.
I Rock TikTok Award
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD, Texas
Claudia Lemus Campos
When you’re ready to dive into the world of TikTok (and Instagram Reels, for that matter!) check out this school’s channel. They’re using the channel to positively highlight the primary audience you’ll find on TikTok… students!
Instagram Idol Award
The Advent School, Massachusetts
Tori Frappoli
To succeed on Instagram, you need to treat it differently from Facebook! That means great photos, eye-catching graphics, and engaging videos. This school is checking all the boxes.
Facebook Standout Award
Grants Pass School District, Oregon
Kristin Hosfelt
Success on Facebook means emphasizing celebration over information, driving engagement, and finding excellent visuals to support your storytelling. Grants Pass is doing an excellent job with its Facebook presence!
Facebook Standout Award
Mineral Point Unified School District, Wisconsin
Joelle Doye
This district nails it when it comes to engaging captions (check out those emojis!), great photos and graphics, and a consistent celebratory presence. Get inspired on its Facebook page!
Social Media All-Star Award
Claremore Public School, Oklahoma
Jamie Brace
Looking for all-around social media greatness? Claremore needs to be on your must-follow list! Jamie Brace is a go-getter who puts 110% into everything she does. Take one look at their channels and you’ll understand!
Social Media All-Star Award
Reading School District, Pennsylvania
Kristin Boyd Edwards
I’ve been inspired by Kristin’s social media skills for a long time, and I promise these channels won’t disappoint when you follow them! She recently transitioned from her role, but scroll back for great videos, powerful stories, amazing graphics, and her creative use of emojis that drive engagement.
There you have it! I can’t wait for you to gain ongoing inspiration from these schools that are rockin’ their social media game.
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