Michigan School Public Relations Association

Each year, MSPRA honors the professionals who are positively impacting public education through strategic communication efforts, as well as the best work in school public relations. As a member, Michigan school communications professionals may submit their best work from the 2025-26 school year for the opportunity to win various awards of recognition. Learn more about the awards, eligibility, application expectations and requirements at https://www.mspra.org/awards/

MSPRA receives rewards for earning a NSPRA Mark of Distinction award as well as the large number of NSPRA members we have. This year, MSPRA received four rewards for our members:
Two $200 coupons for the NSPRA Seminar - Awarded!
One complimentary non-member registration for a NSPRA PR Power Hour, Leaders Learn or Mini Labs webinar
One digital copy of the latest issue of Rubrics of Practice and Suggested Measures
One complimentary NSPRA professional-level membership for a new NSPRA member.
Would you like to earn any of these benefits? If yes, fill out this form https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8c-Q-oLK-b-P-ffi2ixzUlkZ2c10Ij1gnjvJtx1_AhCKjYg/viewform?usp=dialog

The MSPRA Board will conduct a raffle to award the winners.
Reminder: The application window will close on April 29th.

Happy Monday! News recently released indicates that the Department Of Justice is extending the ADA Title II deadline by an additional year for all covered entities.

The compliance date for State and local government entities with a total population of 50,000 or more is extended from April 24, 2026, to April 26, 2027. The compliance date for entities with a total population of less than 50,000 is extended from April 26, 2027, to April 26, 2028.

We are so grateful for this additional time to ensure our digital resources are truly inclusive. Let’s use this extra year wisely! Progress, not perfection!
While the deadline has shifted, our commitment to accessibility has not. It is a marathon, not a sprint!

Save the Date for Your Regional Membership Meeting

MSPRA members, mark your calendars to join a great virtual gathering with local school communicators.
5 - Southeast (purple) » Tue., Apr. 28, 2026, at noon
2 - Western (green) » Wed., May 13, 2026, at noon
4 - Central (red) » Wed., May 13, 2026, at noon
1 & 3 - Northern & UP, Northeast (yellow & blue) » Fri., May 15, 2026, at noon

Not a member yet? Learn more about the benefits of membership at https://www.mspra.org/

Registration is NOW OPEN!

Ready to boost your videos, even if you’re short on time, staff or resources? Looking for ADA compliance tips? Want to hear from the State Superintendent? Join us on June 25 for the MSPRA Summer Drive-in Conference at the MELG Building in Lansing!

This all-day, in-person event, “Soup up your Videos; Hear from the State Supt” kicks off with Lights, Camera, Connection: Using Film to Strengthen School Communications, followed by tips for Tackling new ADA Compliance Audio and Video requirements. After lunch, we’ll exchange insights with fellow school comms pros on 5 different scenarios in an interactive session called: What would you do? And, finally, we’ll hear from Michigan’s new State Superintendent Glenn M. Maleyko, Ph.D.

Registration ends: 06/17/2026 or when seats are filled. Don’t miss out! Learn more on the MSPRA website: https://www.mspra.org/events/summer-drive-in/

Mentors Rock!
There are times in life where people come along and make a lasting impact on you. For me, this is Gerri Allen, Executive Director of Michigan School Relations Association. She has been a mentor to me and a true friend. She is always the first one to check on me when she has a hunch work life is getting tough. She is the most kind and generous soul and a light in every room. And, she is a brilliant professional. I love her so much as a colleague but I love her more as a friend!

Our MSPRA network is just bursting with new ideas, new ways to connect and a plethora of resources. Beyond the BAYsics: Connecting our Communities is delivering as promised! Awesome PD for School PR. Thanks to all our presenters for a great first day! Looking forward to what tomorrow brings!

Arriving early for the annual MSPRA Conference in Bay City? Be sure to ask at check-in for your MSPRA Welcome Water! This welcome gift provides you with quick access to the latest updates on conference activities with an easy QR code!