Going for the Gold: Dirk Tedmon, APR Named Inaugural 2024 National School Communicator of the Year

In an event filled with celebration, camaraderie, and a deep appreciation for the art of communication, Dirk Tedmon, APR, was honored as the inaugural 2024 National School Communicator of the Year. The announcement, made at NSPRA’s National Seminar during Monday’s general session, recognized his exceptional contributions to school communication and his unwavering commitment to fostering transparency and engagement within the educational community.

Dirk’s reaction to being announced as the inaugural National School Communicator of the Year.

Risa Engel of Finalsite presenting the award on stage.

A Day to Remember

The announcement was made on stage after all of the nominees from across the country were honored together. The event culminated with the top four finalists waiting together to hear the winner. Attendees from across the nation, including communication professionals, educators, superintendents, and community leaders, gathered to celebrate excellence in school communication.

The Top 4 Finalists

In addition to the announcement of the first-ever School Communicator of the Year, the ceremony acknowledged national nominees from various states, each of whom has demonstrated excellence and innovation in school communication. The top 4 finalists were honored by showcasing each person’s submitted video about what a national school communicator means to them. These finalist’s contributions have not only improved their individual school districts but have also set benchmarks for others to follow. The finalists were (left to right in photo):

• Jared Revlett, Public Information Officer from Owensboro Public Schools in Kentucky.
• Danielle Airey, APR, Chief Communications Officer from Peoria Unified School District in Arizona.
• Dirk Tedmon, APR, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications from Eden Prairie Schools in Minnesota.
• Kelly Wachel, APR, Chief Communications Officer from Park Hill School District in Missouri.

Special shout out to the Captivate Media team for their assistance with Dirk Tedmon’s video. Take a watch!

Dirk Tedmon’s Journey

Dirk’s journey to becoming the National School Communicator of the Year is a testament to his dedication and passion for effective communication. With immense experience, Dirk has consistently championed initiatives that prioritize clear, honest, and inclusive communication. His work has been instrumental in building trust and fostering a sense of community within his school district.

In his acceptance speech, Dirk expressed his gratitude and shared his vision for the future of school communication. He emphasized that this award is a collective achievement and urged everyone to elevate all voices and focus on achieving goals together. “Let’s be better, let’s do better. Together!” Dirk’s message underscored the importance of collaboration and the continuous pursuit of excellence in school communication.

Looking Ahead

As the inaugural National School Communicator of the Year, Dirk Tedmon is set to inspire and lead a new era of communication professionals. His recognition reminds us of the power of effective communication in shaping the future of education and fostering strong, connected communities.

While the ceremony and acceptance of such a prestigious award concluded, the work does not. Coming together to better communities was not more evident than the support and encouragement that Dirk continues to receive from cabinet members and his superintendent, in attendance to celebrate, to the continual outpouring of support, stories, and conversations. This is not a one-time award but a platform to continue those sometimes uncomfortable conversations that will only better the world. To quote Dirk’s speech at the fall MinnSPRA conference, “​​It’s a reminder that the work we do is strategic, meaningful and impactful, even when life feels otherwise.”