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Fairfax County Public Schools honored nine schools for outstanding websites, newsletters and social media content during its third annual School Communicators Conference on January 29.
The 2024 Awards of Communication Excellence recognized schools whose communications keep families informed, encourage engagement and follow accessibility and other best practices.
Newsletters
Falls Church Academy was honored for its simple, consistent branding and prominent use of the academy’s mission in every newsletter. Judges also highlighted its cross-promotion, including a feature on the top 10 things about the academy, and its engaging photographs of school programs. Jill Burrer was recognized with the school.
Weyanoke Elementary School earned praise for clear, concise writing and inviting photos. Its newsletters favor accessible text and readable bullet lists over flyers and graphic calendars. The school publishes in English and Spanish, working with its family liaison on translations. Felicia Usher accepted the award on behalf of newsletter editor Erin Hughey.
Websites
Chantilly High School’s website stood out for pages devoted to programs such as the Special Education Secondary Transition Employment program, Innovation Lab and Writing Center. Judges also noted its welcoming staff profiles, video-rich curriculum fair materials and resources for military families. Amy Goodloe and Emily Phelan were recognized.
Walt Whitman Middle School was honored for online coverage of its AVID, IB Middle Years Program, Pollinator Meadow Seeding program and Ignite partnership. The website’s stories and photo galleries showcase events, athletics, cultural diversity and community service, while topic filters help visitors navigate school activities. Harmony Tahy received recognition with the school.
Annandale Terrace Elementary School’s website was recognized as an accessible community hub. Features include a translatable, mobile-friendly family handbook, a staff recruitment page with an embedded video and information about art, music, physical education and other specials across grade levels. Candice Raynor, Ashley Ireland, Ingrid Badia and Nicole Scher were honored.
Bryant High School earned an award for a website that celebrates students and staff while explaining specialized courses, personalized learning and preparation for life after high school. The site also offers enrollment resources suited to Bryant’s more frequent use of rolling admission. Carrington Beasley, Florence Pipi Harrison and Karen Hertel were recognized.
Social Media
Annandale High School was honored for Instagram and Facebook content reflecting its diverse and inclusive community. Posts have highlighted Inclusion Revolution Week, future Atoms and college visits. A fast-paced tour led by Principal Shawn DeRose introduced students to key areas of the campus. Jen Cory, Jae Lee and DeRose were recognized.
Columbia Elementary School received praise for polished photography and video, consistent branding and frequent posts on Instagram and Facebook. Its use of the #SmallSchoolBigHeart hashtag reinforces a focus on community, student learning and positive school culture. Sarah Boudart, Shannon Dumont and Mike Astudillo were honored.
Woodson Takes Best in Show
Woodson High School captured Best in Show by meeting or exceeding standards across websites, newsletters and social media.
Since August, the school’s Instagram and Facebook following had increased by 44%. Its accounts emphasize student voices, school celebrations and Principal Kevin Greata’s personality. A weekly “Follow Friday” series promotes a different club or athletics account to explain its impact and encourage participation.
Woodson’s website was recognized for accessible resources and prominent coverage of academic, athletic and artistic achievements. Its Woodson Weekly newsletter uses conversational language and student photographs to keep readers engaged.
Each newsletter also includes a three- to four-minute Weekly Wrap-Up Podcast available through Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The communications team selects material for the newsletter and podcast throughout the week, and the principal records the audio update.
Greata, Anne Baker, Erinn Harris and Alexa Pugnetti were recognized with Woodson’s award.