What's New for 2026 RFE?

• New Entry Platform
  We’re now using NSPRA's (National School Public Relations Association) OpenWater Awards Platform, which streamlines the submission process and offers exciting new features—like the ability for all entrants to receive feedback from judges.
   

• New Video Sub-Categories
  To better reflect the variety of video work, we’ve added four time-based video categories:

  • Short-Form (Under 30 Seconds) – Ideal for reels, countdowns, and quick promos.

  • Mid-Length (30 Seconds to 2 Minutes) – Great for event or program highlights.

  • Long-Form (2 to 5 Minutes) – Tell a full story, feature, or overview.

  • Extended Length (Over 5 Minutes) – For documentaries or event coverage.
    📝 Submitters will still be asked whether the video was produced in-house (by their own staff) or externally (by a contractor), which will be shared with judges for context during evaluation.
     

• Streamlined Contest Structure
  All award categories—including Medallion, Golden Achievement, Publications & Electronic Media, and Professional Awards—are submitted through one centralized form in the new platform.
   

• Updated Professional Awards Application
  The Communicator of the Year nomination form has been updated to reflect the criteria used in the NSPRA School Communicator of the Year Award, so that our SC winner's application can immediately be submitted for national recognition.

Questions?  Contact Awards Chair Julie Putnam at julie.putnam@kcsdschools.net for assistance. 

• No Increase in Entry Fees
  We’re committed to keeping the program accessible—entry fees remain the same as last year.
   

• Same Award Categories You Know and Love
  The Medallion, Golden Achievement, Publications & Electronic Media, and Professional Awards categories continue to recognize excellence in all aspects of school PR.
   

• Judged Against Standards, Not Each Other
  Entries are evaluated based on contest criteria, not in competition with other submissions—so multiple winners can be recognized in each category.
   

• Statewide Recognition for Outstanding Work
  Winning entries will be celebrated through SCNSPRA communications, at chapter events, and through local and regional networks.