The Ulster BOCES Community Relations team was recognized by the New York School Public Relations Association (NYSPRA) with six awards in the annual communications contest. The winning communication pieces were selected from a competitive field of 430 entries. The Community Relations team provides communication support to Ulster County public school districts, including the Ulster BOCES programs.

Notable recognitions for the team include:

● Honor Award:

○ Budget/Bond Newsletter for Marlboro Central School District, written by Senior Digital Communication Specialist Jessica Murray and designed by Graphics Specialist Cathy Sanchez.

● Merit Awards:

○ 2023-2024 Calendar for Ellenville Central School District, coordinated by Murray and designed by Graphics Specialist Cherie Kocsis.

○ Community Newsletter series for Saugerties Central School District, written by Senior Video Production Specialist Kristine Conte and designed by Graphics Specialist Valerie Laudato.

Individually, Brendan Bartow, Digital Communications Specialist, earned a Merit Award for his photo titled “Embracing Diversity Through Dance,” taken for the Kingston City School District.

Conte also received two individual Merit Awards for her video projects with the Saugerties Central School District:

● “Saugerties Shares Student Voice at Graduation,”; highlighting the story behind a first-grader becoming a guest speaker at the 2024 commencement ceremony.

● “Adaptive Skiing Adventure: Saugerties Students of All Abilities Shine on the Slopes.”

“The Ulster BOCES Community Relations Team is committed to fostering effective communication with the various stakeholders within school communities,” says Director Holly Brooker, whose team of communication specialists support school districts throughout Ulster County and nearby areas of the region in achieving their communication goals. “This recognition highlights the team’s dedication to excellence in storytelling and strategic communication on behalf of students and educators throughout Ulster County.”