Spartanburg District Five Schools has earned both national and state recognition for excellence in school communications, receiving honors from the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) and the South Carolina Chapter of the National School Public Relations Association (SCNSPRA).
Among the district's most notable achievements was a national NSPRA “Award of Excellence” in the Publications and Electronic Media category for "Nixon Field: A Legacy of Pride," a video feature produced to commemorate the opening of Byrnes High School's new stadium. The piece captured the history, traditions, and community pride associated with Nixon Field while celebrating a new chapter for Rebel athletics.
In addition to national recognition, District Five received multiple awards through SCNSPRA's 2026 Rewards for Excellence program. The statewide competition recognizes outstanding communications and public relations efforts by school districts, schools, and education organizations across South Carolina. This year, communications professionals from across the state submitted 374 entries, with 155 awards presented during the organization's annual conference in Columbia.
District Five received recognition in several photography and video categories, highlighting the district's commitment to sharing authentic stories that celebrate students, staff, and the community.
Among the district's honored entries were:
Photography: “Foundations of a Bright Future”
Photography: “Rise for the Moment”
Photography: “That Smile Says It All”
Video Long Form: District Five Employees of the Year: Road Trip
Video Long Form: First Day of School 2025-26
Video Extended Length: Five in Focus May 2025
Video Mid Length: Teacher of the Year: Brandon Haskins
Video Mid Length: Byrnes High School Class of 2025 Graduation Highlights
In addition, two pieces, “Five in Focus” and “Graduation Highlights”, were honored with “Best in Show” Awards, recognizing them as the most outstanding in their category in the entire state!
"In District Five, we believe in the power of storytelling," said Melissa Robinette, Director of Public Relations. "Every story we tell reflects the incredible students, employees, families, and community members who make our district so special. These awards are a testament to the power of sharing those stories every day."
The National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) is the nation's leading organization for school communication professionals. SCNSPRA serves as South Carolina's affiliate chapter and is composed of school public relations practitioners, superintendents, and educational leaders from across the state. Both organizations promote excellence in school communications and meaningful engagement between public schools and the communities they serve.