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6 | TheBucknerClarion.com April 2016 Stephanie Smith, director of Public Relations for the Fort Osage Public Schools, has been named the Missouri School Public Relations Association's (MOSPRA's) 2016 Professional of the Year at the annual Spring Conference recently held at the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. Smith has provided strategic, communications for the Fort Osage Public Schools for 13 years. Candidates who are considered for Professional of the Year have demonstrated a valuable contribution to either an education institution or MOSPRA in promoting school public relations (PR) or have made a difference in the life of students. MOSPRA President, Lana Snodgras, stated, "Stephanie is the consummate professional. She is a leader in her school district and community and she is known as one of the strongest public relations professionals in our association." Fort Osage Superintendent Dr. Jason Snodgrass said, "Stephanie has a passion for effectively serving each student and staff member in a positive and enthusiastic fashion. Stephanie Smith Named MOSPRA Professional of the Year She goes above and beyond to effectively communicate and build relationships with students, parents, staff, community, businesses, alumni and other stakeholders to ensure the success of all involved." Fort Osage High School Principal Scott Moore said, "One of Stephanie's many strengths is the ability to support multiple situations while still creating positive relationships with all parties involved." Jill Filer of the Harrisonville Schools, commented, "I know that I can always rely on her for guidance and insight. I trust her judgment and lean on her for support. I've "borrowed" numerous ideas from her to improve our district's communication program including her building walkthroughs and her innovative use of a district app. However, I know that I'm not the only one who counts on Stephanie. MOSPRA members throughout the state know Stephanie as a true PR professional who is willing to answer a call or email any time." The Missouri School Public Relations Association is the Missouri state chapter of the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). While the membership in MOSPRA is primarily composed of school communication practitioners from both public and private school districts, members also include superintendents, principals, secretaries, education association staff, board of education members and others who work to gain public confidence in education. Like its parent organization, MOSPRA is dedicated to providing citizens with a better understanding of the objectives, accomplishments and needs of the schools within our communities.

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