District News

WACO, TX (February 20, 2025) – The Waco ISD Communications Department was recognized with 29 prestigious Texas School Public Relations Association Star Awards during the organization’s annual conference on Thursday night. With more than 1,000 entries submitted statewide, Waco ISD led the state, earning 13 Gold awards, 10 Silver, two Bronze, two Best of Show honors, and two Crystal awards—the highest distinction in a single category.

The team’s Crystal Commendation award was in the Parent/School Volunteers category, highlighting the impact of Waco ISD’s 200+ Community Partners, specifically the STARS Book Club. This initiative brings together volunteers from churches across the city to read with students weekly, fostering literacy improvement and student success.

“We are grateful for the support of our community partners, and nominating the work we do together for our students is just one of the many ways we can show our appreciation,” said Waco ISD Executive Director of Communications Wendy Sledd. “The fact that we earned a Crystal award for highlighting this partnership is a testament that public schools remain the heart of their communities, and it takes all of us to ensure the success of our students.”

The department’s Crystal of Merit award recognized its outstanding publicity efforts in social media, the district website, traditional media—including newspapers and television—and the development of collateral materials to promote Waco ISD’s Advanced Academics program. The team spotlighted the district’s two National Commended Merit Scholars, more than College Board National Recognition scholars for their PSAT performance, and the district’s 28 Advanced Placement Scholars who received national accolades.

“Our Waco ISD Communications Department truly sets the standard of excellence in school public relations,” Waco ISD Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Spicer said. “Although each team member specializes in his or her respective field, they collaborate beautifully to shine a positive light on the many incredible things happening in Waco ISD. To say I am proud is an understatement.”

Waco ISD Television Producer Jesse Botello was also honored with two Best of Show awards for his commitment to bringing classroom transparency to the community. With 26 years of service in Waco ISD, Botello has been recognized multiple times for his contributions to school communications. Sledd, a veteran in public education communications, has earned seven Crystal awards throughout her decade-long career in the field and more than 130 Star awards.

“I’m telling you, we have the best communications department,” said Dean Highland Elementary Principal Sharina Hubbard. “They train us and challenge us to tell our story with pride and frequency. We are blessed.”