The National School Public Relations Association awarded an Award of Excellence in writing — one of only two given out across the country — to Communications Specialist Susan Gifford for an article about homeless students.

The Washington School Public Relations Association (WSPRA) also recognized Gifford with an Award of Excellence for her article, “Homelessness: Schools Give Students Consistency Amid Uncertainty.”

Other communication awards presented during WSPRA’s annual meeting include:

• Award of Merit for the district website. The webmaster is consultant Teresa Stover, of Stover Writing Services. Stover is a technical writer who has authored 14 books and has worked with the district since 2004.
• Award of Merit for the district’s external print Connections newsletter. Gifford is editor of the publication, which is coordinated by Karen Hansen, executive director of communications.
• Award of Excellence in photography for a photo by Gifford of an Emerald Ridge High student clearing a track hurdle. The photo received a perfect score of 100.

Several outside consultants shared in the awards, including Production Assistant Dale Carrington, of Carrington, Ink!, and the Puget Sound Educational Service District.