The Los Angeles County Office of Education received two esteemed Excellence in Communication Awards from the California School Public Relations Association (CalSPRA), a statewide organization that promotes better public understanding, commitment and support of public education. These awards signify the district's commitment to effective communication and innovative engagement with its community.

The first award, An Education: The Debra Duardo Story, is a documentary that aims to inspire and educate by showcasing the remarkable journey of Dr. Debra Duardo. From a teen mom and high school dropout to becoming the Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Duardo's story serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of education and perseverance. The film highlights the importance of educational equity and the potential within every individual to overcome personal and professional challenges.

The second award recognizes the district's outstanding podcast series Let Me Add to That, which delves into the diverse experiences and challenges within L.A. County's education system. As the nation's largest regional education agency with nearly two million students and 80 school districts, the podcast features education experts discussing hot topics such as attendance, mental health, leadership, LGBTQ+ allyship and more. Offering a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas, the podcast has been instrumental in fostering meaningful conversations within the community and beyond.

"We are honored to be recognized by CalSPRA,” said Elizabeth Graswich, Executive Director of LACOE’s Public Affairs and Communications Department. “These awards highlight the effectiveness of our communication strategies and serve as a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We remain committed to elevating our communication efforts to better serve our community."

“CalSPRA members across California help lead our school communities through a variety of challenges, providing effective communication in the face of uncertainty and polarization. Now, more than ever, successful communication is at the heart of public education,” said CalSPRA President Jessica Hull.

CalSPRA’s Excellence in Communication Awards program recognizes superior achievement in meeting strategic goals through high-quality communications and public relations programs. Each entry is evaluated by communication professionals on the overall excellence of the entry. Awards were presented at CalSPRA’s Annual Conference and Awards Banquet on March 1, 2024 in Sacramento.