Killeen ISD’s Communications Services Department has earned national recognition for creating an employee recognition campaign that celebrates staff, strengthens district culture and supports employee retention.
The National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) awarded Killeen ISD a Golden Achievement Award for the Heart of Gold campaign, which launched in September 2024 to recognize and celebrate employees across the district.
The campaign was created in response to educator workforce challenges facing school districts across Texas and the nation. Recognizing that retention is influenced by more than compensation alone, Killeen ISD’s Communications Services Department developed Heart of Gold to help employees feel valued, appreciated and connected to the district’s mission through recognition and authentic storytelling.
The initiative gives students, parents, employees and community members an opportunity to recognize staff members who exemplify Killeen ISD’s values and make a positive impact on students each day.
"This recognition demonstrates the value of a communications team that approaches its work as strategic communicators and problem solvers, not simply content creators," said Karen Rudolph, executive director of communications and marketing. "Our team loves reading the nominations and seeing the creative ways campuses and departments celebrate their recipients. Those moments are a powerful reminder of the dedication and impact our employees bring to their work each day, and we're honored to help share their stories."
Since its launch, Heart of Gold has generated more than 100 nominations each month from students, parents, employees and community members, creating meaningful opportunities for the community to express appreciation for Killeen ISD staff.
The Golden Achievement Award recognizes outstanding, strategic work in school public relations, communication, marketing and community engagement. Entries are evaluated by experienced public relations professionals and accredited school communications leaders from across the nation.
Earlier this year, the Heart of Gold campaign also earned statewide recognition from the Texas School Public Relations Association, receiving a Crystal Commendation Award and Best of Category distinction.
Together, the state and national honors recognize a communications strategy that celebrates the people behind Killeen ISD’s success and the difference they make for students every day.