Through communications and marketing, Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) is at the forefront of investing into the next generation of school public relations professionals and the industry’s latest trends. Both aspects were all full display through creative and innovative presentations, and recognition for award-winning work this week at the Texas School Public Relations Association annual conference in Galveston.

Held Feb. 16-19, HCDE’s Communications and Marketing & Client Engagement divisions joined more than 400 public information, marketing and school communications professionals who serve Texas public school districts and education associations, foundations and organizations. HCDE also served as a conference sponsor and showcased Department services at a vendor table.

The divisions took home 41 total state awards and one Best of Category for marketing video. MCE Assistant Director Mizti Loera, who previously served as a video coordinator for communications, won the top spot for her Choice Partners Division piece.

In addition, Department team members led four conference sessions, including Loera welcoming a standing-room-only crowd for a second straight year to showcase how AI created engaging memories for HCDE’s Convocation. Communications Manager Angel Verdejo presented on how to capture that perfect sports photo while Chief Communications Officer Danielle Clark co-hosted “TSPRA Academy” for members new to the industry. She also led a session for veteran communicators about Superintendent alignment and career trajectory.